Function of the Laboratory Information System (LIS)
Digitalization is changing everything; transforming system models on the way information are
designed, produced, delivered, and consumed. Hence, a systematic way of acquiring, testing, and
delivering this information within and outside labs have become essential.
A Laboratory Information System (LIS) is a network that helps a lab keep track of everything
it needs to do. It aids in getting test orders, processing work, and returning results. The LIS
makes it easier for the workers in charge to do their jobs well.
LIS is important because it makes lab work more organized and efficient. It helps managers do
their job better by giving them the information they need. It also keeps track of patient details,
tests, and helps with quality management in the lab (Varnadoe, 1996).
So, LIS is a helpful computer system that keeps the lab running without a hitch.
Major Components of a Laboratory Information System
LIS is a set of computer parts that takes care of all the information a lab needs. It has three main
parts: LIS Hardware, LIS Software, and a Computer Network (Varnadoe, 1996).
1. LIS Hardware refer to the tools that make everything work. It helps with things like
taking in information, processing it, and giving out results. Examples include the
keyboard, CPU, and display unit.
2. LIS Software is like the smart brain of the system. It's the instructions carried out to do
work. The operating system enables the processing and management of all information.
3. The Computer Network enables these systems to communicate, collaborate, and share
information.
To make sure LIS is functional and effective, it's divided into three parts that work together
(Shrestha, 2022):
a. Tracking Sample is where you keep an eye on all the samples in the lab. This component
helps in making sure nothing gets lost or mixed up.
b. Implementing Protocol is crucial in following a special plan for doing lab work. It
ensures the right way of processing things.
c. In Managing Storage, you have to know where to keep and how to organize agents and
chemicals. It helps organize the lab so that everything is in the right place and easy to
find.
All these components work together to keep the lab organized and well-functioning.
How a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) work
To ensure smooth operation, scientists need a special system. This system would keep track of
all the information in the labs. This helps them avoid any problems with quality. This is where
LIMS comes in.
A Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) is like a digital helper for labs. It
keeps track of all the important information, like samples and tests. And it keeps everything
organized for easy access.
When researchers get a sample, like a piece of tissue or liquid, they give it a special code. Then,
they write down details about it, like where it came from and what tests they'll do. The LIMS
keeps track of all the tests and records the results. It also makes sure the experiments follow the
rules. And when they're done, it helps create reports about what they found (Sanjana, 2018)
(Laboratory Information Management System, 2023).
References:
Laboratory Information Management System. (2013). Laboratory Information Management
System - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics. (n.d.).
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/nursing-and-health-professions/laboratoryinformation-management-system
Sanjana. (2018, August 8). What is Laboratory Information Management System? MocDoc is
Hospital, Doctor and dentist Appointment Management System & Professional Network.
https://mocdoc.in/blog/what-is-laboratory-information-management-system
Shrestha, A. (2022, August 31). Laboratory information system (LIS) • microbe online. Microbe
Online. https://fmicrobeonline.com/laboratory-information-system-lis/
Varnadoe, L. A. (1996). Medical Laboratory Management and Supervision Operations, Review,
and Study Guide. Davis.