Category Archives: 2024

The need for a flexible, efficient, and user-friendly Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) is paramount. This is where QLIMS, a leading LIMS solution, steps in with its configuration-centric approach, designed to streamline lab operations without the need for complex customisations.

Why Configurable LIMS Matters

The Power of Configuration

The power of configurable LIMS is its flexibility – a characteristic achieved through a configuration-centric approach. This allows users to shape configurable LIMS to fit their business needs seamlessly. The difference lies in giving users tools for configuration, not complex customisations. Unlike systems that require extensive customisation through complex coding, QLIMS provides a low code, configuration-based solution. QLIMS grows hand-in-hand with your business, adapting to changing industry standards and evolving workflows without the need for extensive coding efforts.

Adaptability and Scalability

The power is in your hands, making your LIMS an ideal partner for your laboratory seeking not just a solution, but a growth enabler. Essentially, a configurable LIMS goes beyond the traditional to offer a comprehensive solution to suit the needs of the modern laboratory. With its SaaS architecture, user-friendly interface, and unparalleled flexibility through configuration, QLIMS is a testament to innovation in the field of Laboratory Information Management Systems.

Key Features of QLIMS

True SaaS Solution

QLIMS is a true SaaS (Software as a Service) solution, offering accessibility and flexibility for laboratories of all sizes. This means that your laboratory can access QLIMS from anywhere, at any time, ensuring continuous productivity and collaboration.

Comprehensive Data Management

QLIMS goes beyond simple data management, offering features that translate data into actionable insights and knowledge. Laboratories can leverage advanced data analytics to make informed decisions and drive scientific discoveries. For more detailed information about the new functionalities of QLIMS, click here.

Configuration, Not Complex Customisations

Unlike other LIMS platforms that require complex customisations, QLIMS offers easy configuration options, making it simpler and more efficient for laboratories to use. The ease-of-use feature is just one of our many benefits. If you would like to delve deeper into why customers choose QLIMS, click here.For instance, changing your Sample Manager main menu is as easy as clicking ‘modify page’ and ‘add new field to page’. You can even add some space and edit existing fields in your menu.One of the questions we receive most of the time is, “Can I edit my users’ roles and accesses?”. Of course! You are able to modify your users’ roles with only one click within QLIMS. For example, while you are giving your lab manager the authority to approve sample results, you can restrict this permission for lab technicians. The process is straightforward and user-friendly.

Visualisation Features

QLIMS stands out with its focus on visualisation, providing efficient and visually engaging data presentation that enhances user experience. With the Visual Dashboard powered by Kibana, users can gain deeper insights into their data, facilitating better decision-making and streamlined operations.

AWS Qualified Software

QLIMS is qualified by AWS (Amazon Web Services), ensuring high standards of safety and performance. This qualification demonstrates our commitment to providing world-class cloud infrastructure for our customers. Our partnership with AWS means that QLIMS delivers robust security, scalability, and reliability for your laboratory’s data. We’re even officially listed on the AWS Marketplace, making it easier than ever to access and deploy our solution. 

Why QLIMS is the Best Choice for Your Laboratory

In summary, QLIMS is more than just a LIMS; it is a system created by scientists, for scientists, which works with how you work and what you are trying to achieve. The best results will come from a system that is lab-grown.

User-Friendly and Future-Proof

The intuitive, user-friendly interface of QLIMS ensures that all laboratory staff, regardless of technical expertise, can easily navigate and utilise the system. Additionally, QLIMS is designed to evolve with your laboratory’s needs, ensuring that you stay ahead of industry trends and technological advancements.

Enhanced Collaboration

QLIMS fosters enhanced collaboration among laboratory staff, researchers, and stakeholders by providing a unified platform for data sharing and communication. This collaborative environment accelerates scientific discoveries and improves overall lab efficiency.

Commitment to Innovation

At QLIMS, we are committed to continuous innovation, ensuring that our system incorporates the latest advancements in technology and laboratory management practices. This dedication to progress ensures that your laboratory remains at the cutting edge of science and research.

Get in Touch

Are you ready to transform your laboratory operations with a configurable LIMS solution? Get in touch with us now to discuss how QLIMS can benefit your laboratory! Embrace the future of laboratory management with QLIMS – where flexibility meets innovation.

APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) allow LIMS applications to communicate with other software systems and devices, enabling a seamless flow of data and workflows across the laboratory ecosystem. In this blog post, we’re exploring “Enhancing Lab Automation with APIs and LIMS: The QLIMS Advantage”

What is an API?

APIs serve as bridges, allowing developers to access and manipulate data and functions within a system. For instance, logging into a web service like Facebook involves using their API to access personal data.In the context of QLIMS, APIs empower developers to integrate external modules, such as a sample submission app, leveraging existing data and capabilities without building from scratch. This enables developers to interact with the application through API commands, similar to how end users use a graphical interface.

Differences in APIs

Not all APIs are created equal. Key differences include:

• Power: Some APIs focus on data access, while others control application functions.
• Data Access: The extent of accessible application data and functionality.
• Technology: The underlying technology (REST, SOAP, RPC) affects developer interaction.
• Documentation & Support: Comprehensive, easy-to-read documentation and expert support facilitate complex integrations.

Benefits of a REST API

REST APIs, like those used by QLIMS, offer significant advantages:

• Lightweight: Utilising HTTP standards, REST APIs are fast and suitable for mobile apps and IoT devices.
• Independent: The REST protocol separates data storage from the UI, allowing developers to work independently on different project areas.
• Scalable & Flexible: REST APIs can be quickly scaled and easily integrated without much additional work.

These features enable QLIMS customers to run multiple high-throughput integrations and services simultaneously, maintaining LIMS performance for lab staff.

The QLIMS API – Platform Over Application

QLIMS boasts a comprehensive REST API that covers the entire application, supported by detailed documentation and expert technical support. This core component of our platform approach allows for the development and integration of multiple applications with QLIMS, offering a flexible, scalable, and integrated LIMS platform. 

Use Case: Automating with Python and QLIMS

A prime example of the power of QLIMS API is the use of the bridge module with Python. Through advanced automation, labs can achieve seamless integration and enhanced productivity, leveraging Python scripts to automate routine tasks and data workflows. This “BYO Python to QLIMS” approach has enabled sophisticated automation setups, significantly boosting lab efficiency and accuracy.By integrating AWS with QLIMS, labs can further enhance their security posture, ensuring data integrity and compliance while leveraging the robust capabilities of the QLIMS API for maximum operational efficiency.
In conclusion, APIs are indispensable tools in modern laboratory environments, enabling seamless integration, automation, and scalability. With QLIMS’s powerful REST API and the added security of AWS, labs can achieve unparalleled efficiency and data protection.
For more information on how QLIMS and APIs can transform your lab operations, contact us today.

Ensuring the security of sensitive data in laboratories is crucial in today’s digital age. At OnQ Software, we prioritise data protection, partnering with AWS to provide our clients with unparalleled security. Let’s dive into how you can ensure lab security with AWS and LIMS. 

Why AWS Security?

Architected for Security: AWS is designed to be the most secure cloud infrastructure available. With the backing of over 300 security services and features, AWS provides a robust foundation for building, migrating, and managing applications securely. This is especially crucial for labs handling sensitive data, ensuring compliance and data integrity.
Automation and Agility: AWS automates security processes, reducing human error and freeing up valuable time for lab personnel to focus on critical tasks. This means labs can operate faster and more securely, with seamless integration of security measures.
End-to-End Security: AWS offers a comprehensive suite of security services and partner solutions to achieve end-to-end security. This includes everything from identity management and access controls to data encryption and threat detection, ensuring labs are protected at every layer.
Strategic Security Management: With AWS, labs can manage and reduce security risks effectively. AWS provides tools and guidance to define user permissions, protect infrastructure, and ensure data security. This strategic approach allows labs to stay ahead of potential threats and maintain a secure environment.

Benefits for Labs

Enhanced Data Protection: In labs, data security is crucial. AWS’s robust security framework ensures that all lab data is protected against unauthorised access and breaches.
Compliance and Trust: AWS’s security measures are trusted by some of the most security-sensitive organisations, including governments and financial institutions. Labs can rely on AWS to meet stringent compliance requirements.
Improved Efficiency: By automating routine security tasks, AWS allows lab personnel to focus on more important activities, increasing overall efficiency and productivity. 
Quick Incident Response: AWS provides automated incident response capabilities, helping labs to quickly address and remediate security issues, minimising downtime and ensuring continuity.

Integrating QLIMS with AWS

By integrating QLIMS with AWS, labs can take advantage of advanced security features to safeguard their data. At OnQ Software, we frequently receive questions about data security from our clients. We understand their concerns and are committed to addressing them comprehensively. AWS’s security features enable us to provide our clients with the confidence they need to trust their data with us. This level of security has also enabled us to work with various government organisations, further validating our commitment to protecting sensitive data. 
Securing sensitive lab data is non-negotiable. With AWS and QLIMS, labs can achieve a high level of security, ensuring data integrity, compliance, and efficiency. By leveraging AWS’s advanced security features, QLIMS empowers labs to focus on their core mission – advancing scientific discovery and innovation.For more information on how QLIMS and AWS can transform your lab’s security together, contact us today.

“Why do I need a LIMS when I already have SAP Quality Module?”

The quality modules of ERP systems are great as they are already tied into your system which likely handles finance, procurement, and logistics, but only cover basic functions needed for the laboratory which is normally only product release.A LIMS, such as QLIMS, is designed to cater for all the important work of both the wet and dry lab in between receiving raw materials and the release of finished product.In the short ERP’s focus is production and not the laboratory.

“90% of European biotech and Pharma companies surveyed use a LIMS and not their ERP to manage lab data.”

Key LIMS functions to support your ERP include:

• Analytical method management
• Instrument management and automation
• Logical sample and testing workflows
• Full audit trail
• Easy reporting
• Laboratory statistics
• Compliance to ISO 17025 and other lab standards

In conclusion, both systems have their strengths, but for the laboratory LIMS is purpose built and from our experience an integrated solution gives the most benefits for the business.To learn more about ERP and LIMS, please contact us.

Time is of the essence in manufacturing laboratories. For labs, managing samples, pallets, and production plans can be incredibly time-consuming. This is where a Lab Information Management System (LIMS) like QLIMS comes into play. By integrating a LIMS into your operations, you can significantly increase efficiency and save precious hours every day. Let’s dive into together how manufacturing labs save time using LIMS. 

1. Streamlined Production Plan Integration

One of the key features of QLIMS is its ability to integrate seamlessly with your production plan. Instead of manually tracking and calculating data for samples and pallets, the system automates these processes. Here’s how it works:

• Automatic Data Entry: Once you input your production plan into QLIMS, the system automatically tracks samples and pallets according to the plan. This eliminates the need for manual data entry, which is often prone to errors and incredibly time-consuming.

 

• Automated Calculations: QLIMS performs calculations based on the data from your production plan. Whether it’s calculating quantities, monitoring sample statuses, or generating reports, the system handles it all instantly. This means your lab technicians no longer have to spend hours doing these calculations manually.

 

• Enhanced Tracking: With QLIMS, you can easily track the status and location of every sample and pallet in your lab. The system updates in real-time, providing you with accurate and up-to-date information at all times.

2. Increased Efficiency and Productivity

By automating routine tasks, QLIMS frees up your lab employees to focus on more critical activities like production. Here’s how this increased efficiency translates into tangible benefits:

• More Testing, More Production: With the time saved from automating sample and pallet tracking and calculations, your lab can conduct more tests and increase overall production. This not only boosts productivity but also enhances the lab’s ability to meet production targets.

 

• Reduced Errors: Manual data entry and calculations are prone to human error, which can lead to costly mistakes. QLIMS reduces these errors by automating the processes, ensuring that your data is accurate and reliable.

 

• Improved Decision Making: With all data centralised and updated in real-time, your team can make informed decisions quickly. This agility is crucial in a manufacturing environment where decisions often need to be made on the fly.

• ERP Integration: ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) integration opportunity streamlines your entire production process. This seamless connection ensures that data flows effortlessly between systems, eliminating the need for manual data transfer. As a result, your lab operations become more cohesive, and you gain a holistic view of both your lab and production activities. This integration not only saves time but also enhances overall operational efficiency, allowing your team to focus on core production tasks without being bogged down by admin tasks.

3. Comprehensive Reporting

QLIMS offers comprehensive reporting features that further save time and improve efficiency. These reports provide insights into your lab’s operations, helping you identify areas for improvement and make data-driven decisions.

• Automated Reports: Generate detailed reports with just a few clicks. Whether you need a daily summary, a weekly overview, or a custom report, QLIMS makes it easy.

 

• Data Analysis: Use the reports to analyse data, identify bottlenecks, and optimise your lab’s performance. This continuous improvement cycle helps you stay ahead in a competitive market.

Integrating QLIMS into your manufacturing lab’s operations can save you 3-4 hours a day by automating routine tasks, reducing errors, and providing real-time insights. We know because we’ve experienced this with many manufacturing labs. This increased efficiency not only boosts productivity but also enhances your lab’s ability to meet production goals and maintain high standards of quality.By embracing a modern LIMS like QLIMS, you can transform your lab into a more efficient, productive, and innovative environment. Don’t let manual processes hold you back – let QLIMS handle the heavy lifting so your team can focus on what they do best. Contact us today.

Laboratories from all industries seek to enhance their operational efficiency, data management, and research capabilities, so selecting the right Lab Information Management System (LIMS) becomes crucial for them. OnQ Software, leveraging the robust and scalable infrastructure of Amazon Web Services (AWS), offers a comprehensive LIMS solution QLIMS tailored to meet the unique needs of your laboratory. In this blog post, we dive into the benefits of AWS powered QLIMS. 

1. Dynamic Scalability and Flexibility

QLIMS on AWS can seamlessly scale to accommodate labs’ growing data and scientific needs, ensuring that resources are always aligned with current demands. Furthermore, QLIMS can adapt to various configurations, providing flexibility in implementation and operations. With a dedicated support team, OnQ Software ensures smooth implementation, user training, and ongoing maintenance, providing expert assistance and rapid issue resolution.

2. Enhanced Security and Compliance

AWS’s robust security infrastructure, combined with QLIMS’ comprehensive security protocols, ensures that your sensitive data is protected against breaches and unauthorised access. AWS complies with stringent regulatory standards such as HIPAA, GDPR, and ISO, which are critical for maintaining data integrity and legal compliance in laboratory environments.

3. Superior Reliability and Performance

Leveraging AWS’s global infrastructure, OnQ Software ensures high availability and reliability of its LIMS, minimising downtime and ensuring continuous access to critical data and applications. AWS’s advanced computing resources provide laboratories with optimal performance for data processing, storage, and analytics, enhancing overall laboratory efficiency.

4. Integration and Interoperability

QLIMS is designed to seamlessly integrate with your existing systems and workflows, including laboratory instruments, ERP systems, and other third-party applications. Utilising AWS’s broad range of services, QLIMS can create a unified, cohesive ecosystem that enhances operational workflows, and facilitates smooth data flow and interoperability within your lab.

5. Advanced Analytics and Innovation

By leveraging AWS’s advanced analytics, machine learning tools and continuous innovation, your laboratory can access powerful insights, predictive analytics, state-of-the-art functionalities and data-driven decision-making capabilities to ensure they stay at the forefront of industry standards.

6. Proven Track Record

OnQ Software has a proven track record of successful LIMS implementations in many laboratory environments, showcasing its ability to deliver high-quality, reliable solutions that drive operational efficiency and data integrity.

Numerous satisfied clients attest to OnQ Software’s expertise, reliability, and the transformative impact of QLIMS.You can read our case studies here (Comvita, Baiada, and Garvan Institute of Medical Research) to see how other laboratories from different industries benefit from QLIMS.  Choosing OnQ Software’s LIMS solution QLIMS on AWS offers laboratories a strategic advantage, combining the power of AWS’s cloud infrastructure with OnQ Software’s specialised expertise in laboratory management systems. This partnership ensures that labs benefit from unparalleled scalability, security, performance, and innovation, positioning your laboratory for sustained success and growth.Are you ready to revolutionise your lab with AWS-powered LIMS? QLIMS is ready for you, contact now for a free demo. 

In recent years, the medical cannabis industry has experienced significant growth and acceptance worldwide. With this growth comes the need for robust and efficient systems to manage the complex processes involved in cannabis cultivation, processing, and distribution. This is where Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) play a crucial role. In Part 1, we delved into the key features of a LIMS in the medical cannabis industry and how QLIMS conforms to TGO 93 Standards. Now, in Part 2, we’re diving into how QLIMS supports the medicinal cannabis process.

How QLIMS supports the medicinal cannabis process

As the cannabis testing industry grows more and more, so does the need for greater efficiency relating to results, reports, regulatory compliance and the many other aspects of data management.

 

Here we will explain to you how our solution, QLIMS, supports companies involved in each part of the chain and the items that medicinal cannabis companies should consider when selecting a LIMS and software for quality control.

 

The 4 key functional areas of the medicinal cannabis process:

 

• Cultivation 

• Research and Development

• Quality Control

• Manufacturing

1. Cultivation

This is relevant for groups who are growing the plants for medicinal use including harvesting of the plant material and are in the process of setting up or have already completed the set up of their cultivation facilities and are looking to implement a system to manage their plant yields, harvests and record each stage of the cultivation process.

 

The key requirement is to ensure you are recording each stage of the process, performing the correct tests and capturing the associated data in accordance to the licences.

2. Research and Development

This is essentially for groups who are researching the development of new and improved medical cannabis strains and formulations for medical-grade products.

The formulation data and analytical reports are critical in this phase. Integration to scientific instruments is enabled to ensure accuracy and efficiency.

 

Here we will focus on how QLIMS can help you with the extraction, research and testing of medical cannabis, with a focus on data management, quality, inventory, stability testing and regulatory standard and by discussing how a LIMS assists with extraction and analytical testing and End to end Batch & Sample Workflow Management.

3.  Medical Cannabis Testing & Quality Assurance

With the large number of cultivation facilities currently set up or in the process of being implemented across the country, Medical Cannabis testing labs will see a massive magnitude of samples that will require testing and processing will be difficult to manage with just spreadsheets or paper-based systems. Furthermore, using spreadsheets is simply not enough to comply with the regulatory guidelines as there is no audit trail tracking your samples, across reception, testing and disposal.

 

LIMS plays a significant role in overcoming such data management and traceability challenges.

4. Manufacturing

QLIMS manages the associated testing required as part of the production/manufacture of medicinal cannabis products and ensures specifications are met. The subsidiary data including COAs required for accreditation is critical to be captured.

LIMS is the central app for pretty much all laboratories and serves to receive and track samples and their results as well as generate reports, COAs and labels.

 

Here we will focus on how QLIMS supports the manufacturing of medicinal cannabis products. The focus will be data management, final product formulations, compliance with GMP guidelines and workflow tracking.A large number of medicinal cannabis facilities set up across Australia are focused on manufacturing for local and exporting. As such the sampling numbers are going to be very high so a system to effectively manage all that data, maintain traceability and help keep compliant with GMP will be important. As seen from our previous posts, no matter what data you are looking to record and track a LIMS can help.

 

These are some of the major areas where QLIMS can assist with GMP compliance and improve automation at your manufacturing facility.

 

These are just a few areas where a robust LIMS can improve your laboratory and business practices. By being modular, tracking the subsidiary and allowing for integration to any other systems involved in your medicinal cannabis laboratory, a professional LIMS such as QLIMS acts as an extension to your staff’s scientific skills and forms a critical part of the supply chain.If you’re interested in learning more about how a LIMS can benefit your medical cannabis operations or if you have any questions, contact us today to explore how QLIMS can streamline your lab workflows and ensure compliance with industry standards. Let’s take your laboratory management to the next level together!

In recent years, the medical cannabis industry has experienced significant growth and acceptance worldwide. With this growth comes the need for robust and efficient systems to manage the complex processes involved in cannabis cultivation, processing, and distribution. This is where Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) play a crucial role. In this blog post, we will dive into the LIMS in the Medical Cannabis industry together. LIMS in the medical cannabis industry serve as a comprehensive solution for managing laboratory workflows, data, and compliance requirements. 

Here are the key features of a LIMS in the Medical Cannabis Industry

• Sample Submission

Submit samples easily through our Customer Portal or in person, using barcode-enabled Chain of Custody (COC) for streamlined tracking of sample location, possession and status. 

• Chain of Custody Tracking 

Trace sample and aliquot information seamlessly from collection to disposal, ensuring ownership and location tracking throughout the lab workflow, even if samples are sent to multiple locations for testing.

• Quality Assurance in Testing and Analysis

Perform qualitative and quantitative tests for potency, terpene content, microbial presence, solvent residues, heavy metals, and pesticides. Record, track, and generate test results, along with maintaining SOPs and ingredient lists to comply with TGO 93 Standards.

• Formulation and Raw Material Management

Develop and track product and intermediate product formulations, detailing components and quantities, as well as manufacturing steps.

• Instrument Integration and Lab Automation

Integrate the LIMS with your spectrometers and chromatographs for seamless data exchange, either through API or file-based integration.

• Analytical and Regulatory Reporting

Generate clear and meaningful reports, including Certificates of Analysis (COA) according to TGO93 requirements, and authenticate test reports with e-signatures.

• Data Security and Auditing

Ensure data security with role-based access controls and e-signatures, preventing unauthorised access and ensuring compliance with ISO 17025 and FDA’s CFR 21 Part 11.

Conforming to TGO 93 Standards with QLIMS

The Narcotic Drugs Amendment Act 2016 saw the rise of the medical cannabis industry in Australia, as it permitted the research, cultivation and production of medical cannabis and related products. Following this, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) had a new task on their hands, regulating the production and manufacturing of what was once a Schedule 9 (S9) drug.

As such, the TGA issued a new standard to specify the minimum quality requirements that unapproved medicinal cannabis products imported into and supplied or manufactured in Australia must adhere to, this came to be known as TGO 93 (Standard for Medicinal Cannabis).

TGO 93 stipulated that any company within Australia looking to import, export, or manufacture Medicinal Cannabis products had to adhere to the standard and ensure that the active ingredients and cannabinoids present in the final product are strictly derived from the cannabis plant.

As TGO 93 involves recording, tracking and reporting on a range of macroscopic and microscopic examinations as well as chromatographic procedures, handling the data via a paper-based method becomes quite cumbersome and has no reportable audit trail.

This is essentially where labs need assistance with a reliable LIMS system.If you’re interested in learning more about how a LIMS can benefit your medical cannabis operations or if you have any questions, contact us today to explore how QLIMS can streamline your lab workflows and ensure compliance with industry standards. Let’s take your laboratory management to the next level together!