Computers and Laboratory Support Structures are Important to Effective Assaying

Introduction (context)

This web site focuses on a "team-managed" assay lab. Everybody, including the Chief Chemist, shift supervisors (team leaders), and all levels of assayers, generate assay numbers. Although the lab supervisor (Chief Chemist) channels (facilitates) production and facility support activities (training, maintenance, housekeeping, etc.) to reinforce priorities, administrative functions are decentralized. Pure desk jobs don't exist here.

Under this administration system, there are no separate data management employees. Computer applications are streamlined to allow transfer and control of data in a minimum of time with a minimum of system maintenance. Whenever possible, paper reports are eliminated; data is electronically transferred directly to client computer systems.

In a team context, training and other facility support functions are also distributed functions. All members of the lab have a role in front-line assays; all qualified techs accept training roles; all experienced assayers potentially have a role in lab administration and facility maintenance. However, except for the Chief Chemist (lab supervisor), all administrative duties are considered secondary to "getting the numbers out."

Team systems are a less common approach to laboratory functions. Although we are working on improvements, this tight labor approach has a cost. Working conditions can sometimes seem chaotic. Any perception of slacking is noticed and pressured by co-workers. Is the lab pretty? Who has time for cosmetic activities? However, it's an exciting place to work.

Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)

In the picture at right, a team leader (shift supervisor) is pausing from performing assays to review data quality and approve assay data for release to clients. The focus in this lab is to minimize assay administration and support costs through data automation. An example of how LIMS data flow works for pit type samples is illustrated on the opening page of "About Assaying". In the background of this picture is another PC station. It stores training programs, procedure documentation, specialized records and spreadsheets, and other laboratory support documentation. As time permits, assay technicians add to the support material stored on this computer.

Quality Control

Developing Laboratory Support Applications (databases, spreadsheets, training manuals, ect.)