Tag: Lab Optimisation

Improving Lab Efficiency for Business Growth

Lab managers play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of laboratories, contributing to the success of research and development activities. It’s a tough job as their responsibilities are diverse and cover various aspects of lab management, from administrative tasks to technical oversight.

Over the years, Agilent has conducted independent global surveys of lab managers from different market segments. The objective of the surveys is to understand lab managers’ pain points and find out what they need to address their most pressing concerns, as well as reveal the differences and similarities of the challenges they face.

 

Why lab efficiency is important

Lab efficiency is a fundamental aspect of successful lab management, driving productivity, quality, safety, and financial performance. An efficient lab is able to control its time and resources to ensure project milestones and deadlines are met. It’s also important to maintain consistent procedures and protocols, leading to more reliable and accurate results. With an optimised workflow, labs can enjoy quicker completion of tasks and experiments, accelerating the pace of research and development. Finally, by streamlining processes, labs can increase the throughput of experiments and projects without a proportional increase in costs or resources.

Watch our webinar on how to Free Your Workflows From Common Time Traps >

 

In a nutshell, an efficient lab operates at a higher level of productivity, with greater accuracy, and with ideal use of resources. Sounds simple, right? Well, achieving optimal efficiency in a lab is not so straightforward and Agilent’s surveys have revealed the challenges and pain points lab managers face in getting efficiency right.

 

What lab managers want

In Agilent’s survey, “‘Understanding Key Challenges and Pain Points in the Global Laboratory Market’, 45% of respondents indicated that they face significant pressure to process more samples. These pressures stem from advancements in technology, rising demand across various sectors, and the need for faster and more accurate results.

The pain point for lab managers is that they have to be able to grow the lab’s business without raising costs. So, it’s quite demanding to tackle more samples but not increase expenses. Where Chemetrix can help is offering incredible analytical technology that is much more flexible, adaptable and able to process more samples with greater accuracy in analysis. As our product portfolio includes variations options, our expert team is able to listen to the needs of lab managers and advise potential solutions that can offer great return on investment. This can help the lab grow and thrive without drastically increasing operating costs.

Improved workflow is another challenge for lab managers, with 75% of global respondents saying that instrument maintenance and downtime are their biggest challenges. In pharma labs specifically, around 90% of respondents said that having reliable and accurate instruments would be the top two factors that would best improve workflow.

For business to grow, business has to flow, and that means the instruments should be humming along without downtime. In many instances, preventative maintenance can help labs avoid unplanned downtime. This is why Chemetrix recommends instruments that provide digital alerts for regular maintenance so that lab staff can take care of the equipment before any challenges arise. In addition to smart technology, Chemetrix also provides great instrument support. From online troubleshooting guides to our Fresh Desk support system, we’re able to help labs quickly so they can continue their valuable work.

Watch the webinar on how to Reduce Instrument Downtime With Usage-Based Maintenance >

Download the brochure on 5 Tips To Prevent Unplanned Lab Downtime >

When people think of business growth for labs, the automatic assumption is that space will grow as well. This may not be the case as smaller labs might not be able to or might not want to move into bigger premises for any number of reasons. 75% of lab managers surveyed in Agilent’s global research indicated they believe space-saving analytical instruments can help overcome the challenge of small lab premises.

Agilent 1260 Infinity II

It’s true that lab instruments are becoming smaller and much more space-efficient. Certain instruments can do more in a smaller footprint than some larger instruments and possibly fit right in to an existing instrument setup. Chemetrix is able to assess laboratory space requirements and recommend instruments that are robust and powerful but will occupy less bench space. This can improve business efficiency through improved instrument configuration and allowing some more space for other tasks or instruments.

Agilent 7850 ICP-MS

 

Support efficiency for labs to thrive

Efficient labs ensure consistent quality and reliability, fostering innovation and maintaining a competitive edge. It is crucial for business growth because it leads to increased productivity, cost savings, and faster turnaround times, which enhance customer satisfaction and speed to market. For lab managers, there are additional benefits because it improves employee satisfaction and retention, allowing for focused professional growth. Delving into the process of tackling these challenges and pain points also provides valuable data-driven insights for strategic decision-making, driving long-term business success and adaptability.

What Chemetrix can do is support the goals of lab managers and truly listen to their challenges and pain points to provide effective solutions. We are more than an analytical instrument supplier – we are a partner in the business journey. Our track record and decades-long relationships with laboratories that have grown into successful operations prove that we understand the need for business efficiency and we are more than able to help labs and lab managers achieve their goals.

 

Free Your Workflows from Common Time Traps

The smarter way to avoid time traps in your laboratory.

Do you think time-consuming tasks in ICP-MS are inevitable? Something that has to be accepted as part of routine operations? Find out how ICP-MS 7850 helps you easily meet your analytical requirements while simplifying laboratory workflow and improving performance and satisfaction for analysts and laboratory managers.

The intelligence embedded in the ICP-MS 7850 provides a more efficient way to perform metal analysis by reducing unnecessary wasted time so that your staff can focus on activities that generate greater value for the laboratory.

 

What you will learn

  • Simplify the preparation of your samples and standards.
  • Facilitate the implementation of analytical methods and the handling of the instrument.
  • Improve confidence in your results whatever the matrix analysed
  • Maintenance operations and reduce instrument downtime
  • Optimise and obtain better instrument and sample insights

 

Date: Thursday, June 14, 2024
Time: 01:00 PM – 02:00 PM (GMT)
Speaker: Dr. Raimund Wahlen, Product Specialist, Agilent Technologies

 

Register now >

 

Smart Lab Design: Maximising Space and Efficiency

Thanks to film and television, everyone thinks labs are generous spaces filled to the brim with the latest equipment. In the reality of the world of scientific discovery, where breakthroughs are born from the confines of laboratories, the paradox of limited space presents a unique challenge. The quest for efficient and innovative smart lab designs becomes imperative, transforming constraints into opportunities for creativity and optimisation.

 

The significance of space optimisation in lab design

Lab spaces, often regarded as the epicentres of innovation, are not immune to the constraints of real estate. The importance of space optimisation in lab design cannot be overstated, especially when faced with the challenges of limited square footage. Efficient use of space directly impacts workflow, collaboration, and the overall productivity of the lab.

Even the science world isn’t immune to the fact that rising operational costs for businesses means lab space costs more and budgets might not allow for that extra room. New labs just starting out might have a small space to work with and grow from there but it gives them a chance as well to find an efficient layout for business growth.

Maximising limited lab space

Having less space doesn’t have to be a big hurdle for a lab to overcome. With thoughtful planning and strategic design, it’s possible to make the most out of every available square meter. Here are some practical ideas to address the challenge:

1. Modular furniture: Opt for modular and flexible furniture that can be easily rearranged to accommodate changing research needs. This adaptability ensures that the lab layout can evolve without major renovations. Bench space that has wheels and clips means the configuration can be altered as the lab changes.

2. Vertical storage solutions: Utilise vertical space for storage. Shelving, cabinets, and other storage solutions that extend upward maximise storage capacity without encroaching on valuable floor space.

3. Shared workstations: Implement shared workstations and collaborative areas to reduce the need for individualised spaces. This fosters a sense of community and optimises the usage of available space.

4. Streamlined equipment selection: Choose compact and multi-functional equipment. Advances in technology have led to the development of instruments that offer robust performance while minimising the physical footprint.

Perfect examples of space-saving equipment include the Agilent Cary 630 FTIR Spectrometer, the world’s smallest FTIR, and the Agilent 5900 ICP-OES, which is the smallest ICP-OES on the market.

 

Innovative lab layouts and new instruments

Rather than viewing limited space as a hindrance, consider it an opportunity for innovation. Novel lab layouts that prioritise collaboration and flexibility can emerge from the constraints of space limitations.

Embrace open-concept designs, shared spaces, and fluid workstations that encourage dynamic interaction among researchers. Additionally, explore the latest advancements in analytical instruments designed specifically for compact labs. Instruments that integrate seamlessly, require minimal space and deliver optimal performance are key to navigating the challenges of limited lab space.

Space-saving solutions with Chemetrix

The quest for efficient lab design in small spaces is not just a practical necessity; it is an opportunity for creative solutions and innovative layouts. By adopting smart lab designs and leveraging space-saving instruments, laboratories can transcend the limitations of physical space, fostering an environment where groundbreaking discoveries thrive.

As laboratories embark on the journey to optimise their limited space, exploring space-saving analytical instruments becomes a critical step. Chemetrix offers a comprehensive portfolio of instruments designed to be user-friendly, integrate seamlessly with existing systems, and maximise efficiency within confined lab spaces. To unlock the potential of space-saving solutions tailored to your lab’s unique needs, contact Chemetrix today. Together, we can redefine the boundaries of innovation, even in a small space.

Strategic Decision-Making: Balancing Innovation, Budget, and Technology in Scientific Research

Did you know that even in the world of cutting-edge scientific research, principal scientists grapple with a delicate dance between budget constraints, selecting the right tools, and keeping abreast of technological advancements? It’s an intricate tapestry of decisions that define the success of laboratories and the critical role principal scientists play in this high-stakes balancing act.

In the ever-evolving landscape of scientific discovery, the interplay between budget considerations, the selection of the right tools, and staying ahead in technological advancements is more complex than meets the eye. The choices made in this delicate dance have far-reaching implications, influencing the pace of innovation and the ultimate success of research endeavours.

 

Why Balancing Budget and Technology Matters for Labs

Effective budget planning is paramount for maintaining financial stability, allocating resources wisely, and ensuring the sustainability of research programs. In the world of laboratories, where breakthroughs and advancements are the currency of success, discussions around balancing budgets and technology choices are not just financial exercises but strategic imperatives. Simultaneously, the choice of technology and tools can make or break the success of experiments, affecting the quality and reliability of results.

The principal scientist’s dilemma lies at the crucial nexus of these considerations, shaping the trajectory of scientific progress within a laboratory.

 

Considerations for Success

Budget Planning: Principal scientists must master the art of budget planning, understanding the financial constraints of the laboratory while aligning resources with overarching research goals. Strategic budget management involves forecasting, risk assessment, and transparent communication to secure funding for critical initiatives.

Tool Selection: The right tools are the backbone of successful scientific breakthroughs. Factors such as scalability, versatility, and long-term viability when selecting tools must be considered. The goal is to invest in instruments that meet current needs and adapt to the evolving demands of research.

Staying Ahead in Technology: In a world where technological advancements are rapid, it’s vital to keep laboratories at the forefront of innovation. Regular assessments of emerging technologies, collaboration with industry leaders, and fostering a culture of adaptability are essential for staying ahead in the dynamic realm of scientific research.

 

Inspiration for Laboratory Optimisation

Imagine the transformative potential when laboratories optimise their budget, tools, and technology choices. Principal scientists can inspire a culture of innovation by championing a holistic approach that embraces efficiency and excellence. Encourage your team to reevaluate the choices made in the lab, fostering an environment where every decision aligns with the overarching mission of scientific advancement.

 

Partnering with Chemetrix for Optimal Solutions

As principal scientists navigate the intricate landscape of budget constraints and technological choices, partnering with industry leaders becomes paramount. Chemetrix stands as a beacon of innovation, offering solutions that seamlessly integrate budgetary considerations with cutting-edge technology. This isn’t just a challenge; it’s an opportunity to redefine the landscape of scientific research.

Sustainability Through Lab Optimisation

The average lab consumes more energy per square meter than many hospitals or other commercial buildings—the US EPA estimates that a 30% reduction in lab energy use in the United States translates to removing 1.3 million cars from highways per year. Now, imagine what that would mean for labs around the world.

Scientific labs are experiencing an increasing demand for greater efficiency and productivity and, at the same time, a strong desire to maximise sustainability from the organisation-wide level to daily operations. Combining new data intelligence technologies and better industry insight guidance allows for advancing lab operational efficiency through better asset utilisation and increased sustainability in the digital lab era.

 

Lab managers want sustainability and optimisation

The central premise for discussing sustainability and optimisation together is that a more efficient lab is a more sustainable one. Most lab managers are mindful of both sustainability and optimisation needs. A global survey of lab managers highlighted a strong desire to meet sustainability goals and remain conscious of sustainability in their daily operations.

Key takeaways from the survey included:

  • 68% of labs surveyed acknowledged that they require further work to improve sustainability.
  • The most common sustainability expectations from instrument vendors are to reduce emissions and energy consumption. 68% of the respondents expected instrument vendors to help them reduce emissions, while 58% expected a reduction in energy.
  • Increased efficiency and optimisation are also factors, with the most critical concern being speed as demand for higher sample throughput increases dramatically. The importance that lab leaders place on improving speed, optimisation, and efficiency was also highlighted in a pharmaceutical lab leaders survey.
  • Of those surveyed, 83% believed their workflows needed optimisation, and 63% would welcome innovations to increase efficiency.

 

Advanced asset control, digital analytics, and expert guidance

The opportunity for lab optimisation improvement is profound. On average, lab instruments are running only 35% of the time, and only 4% of labs employ data intelligence to ascertain fleet utilisation.

James Connelly, chief executive officer of My Green Lab agrees, “Lab equipment makes up a significant portion of the total plug load in any lab and can lead to high energy consumption. Optimisation of lab equipment through solutions such as asset performance management can dramatically lower the overall energy consumption and be a significant step toward achieving lab sustainability.”

A holistic method of assuring lab-wide optimisation and efficiency is required to address this gap effectively. A combination of advanced asset control, digital analytics, and expert guidance allows greater visibility and utilisation of all lab assets. Maximising the availability and utilisation of all assets will reduce a lab’s carbon footprint and enable more science to be done. Increasing operational efficiency and productivity positively impacts lab sustainability. Reducing energy consumption through increased efficiency is a win-win, especially for the environment.

Data intelligence systems with real-time sensing technology and interconnectivity provide better visibility into lab operations and help drive decisions. Gaining clarity on asset utilisation enables more informed decision-making that advances lab operations to new levels of efficiency and productivity—while increasing sustainability at the same time. Measuring asset utilisation opens the door to appropriate fleet right-sizing and technology refresh, resulting in higher throughput, less power consumption, a smaller workflow footprint, and redeployment of under-used or redundant instruments.

 

Connected labs reduce waste and increase productivity

Labs that are connected benefit from multiple efficiencies that bolster sustainability. Technologies such as smart alerts foster a proactive approach to instrument monitoring. Rather than reacting to an instrument breakdown, an interconnected lab with smart alert software will prevent it from happening in the first place. Interconnectivity also enables the ability to make data-driven decisions.

Interconnective technology can also increase instrument utilisation because it calculates how much science any particular instrument performs per square meter. Sustainability isn’t limited to the traditional ‘green’ metrics of waste and water— it is equally achieved through technology.

For example, having visibility of all instruments at once to produce an overall lab footprint from which adjustments can be made to make the lab more effective and efficient. Or not having to waste time performing duplicate runs because the smart alert system fires when the first doesn’t go through.

 

Go greener with asset monitoring

The process of lab optimisation involves integrating utilisation data with instrument service histories and end-of-guaranteed support to measure the instrument’s health. Understanding instrument utilisation and health can determine the optimal footprint and workflow composition.

A central operations strategy provides lab managers with profound insight into asset composition and health and the means to make data-driven decisions and optimise lab operations. The subsequent improvement of lab-wide efficiency not only increases the productivity of the laboratory as a whole but also lab sustainability by doing more science with less energy and resources. A win for both science and the environment.

 

This article is modified from content originally published by Agilent