Sample Tracker is a simple to install, easy to use, affordable concept in laboratory sample management.
Sample Tracker is the right application for laboratory managers or supervisors, who want better visibility of their laboratory or pilot plant operations but do not want to implement a full LIMS. However, if the need to upgrade does arise there is a simple upgrade path to the Matrix LIMS family without loss of your investment in Sample Tracker.
Sample Tracker tracks, records and reports the progress of samples and work through a laboratory or process. It can track process steps as well as analytical and physical tests. Key benefits include:
- Simplifies laboratory management by tracking all samples and tests
- Enhances accountability by auditing all actions (who, when, why)
- Can record multiple sample splits and maintains the parent / child relationship
- Saves time by automatically allocating tests to samples or process steps to production lots as they are registered
- Eliminates errors by allocating a unique identifier to each sample
- Prints labels for samples, including bar code labels
- Provides immediate feedback on work progress using the status features
- Enhances available information through standard set of reports
Sample Tracker is frequently implemented with barcode printers and scanners to enter sample identity and location information. This speeds data input and reduces errors by eliminating typing mistakes. Each freezer, refrigerator and storage cabinet can be labeled with barcodes down to each shelf and the exact location for each sample or box of samples can be stored. The sample inventory report may be printed showing the status and last entered location for each sample.
A “Chain of Custody” is maintained and can be reported for each sample.
As each test or process step is completed, information may be entered and recorded as to what batch or lot of reagent and supplies were used with that sample. This greatly assists in investigating process issues.
Sample Tracker is supplied with a standard suite of functional reports including Worksheets, Work Pending, Sample Status and Audit Trail. Any laboratory system should comply with GLP (Good Laboratory Practice), and Sample Tracker is no exception. Any changes to data are recorded along with the date and time of the change and identity of the user who made the change. All such historical data may be reported as required.
In order to accommodate GLP, GMP and ISO9000 requirements, the system automatically records who performed essential functions related to a sample and when they occurred. Once entered, records cannot be removed from the database. Instead, Sample Tracker retains revisions of each record within the database which can be used to track the history of a sample.
Sample Tracker greatly increases the transparency of your laboratory or process without the costs and complexity of a full LIMS.