A 99% reduction in algae data errors after LIMS customization

Innowise has customized an existing web-based Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), LabCollector, to efficiently monitor growth and lineage of algae used in animal feed production.

Customer

Industry

Pharma

Region

USA

Client since

2023

Our client is a company specializing in producing algae-based animal feed. Detailed information about the client cannot be disclosed under the terms of the NDA.

Challenge

Need to efficiently managing and analyzing data from multiple sources

Our client used an Excel file with separate tabs for each algae sample to monitor cell density and nitrate concentration (NO3 mM) over time. Key formulas for growth and nutrient consumption were applied to assess algae replication and nutrient uptake post-manipulation.

Primary pain point: Managing lab data is challenging due to the sheer volume of data generated, the complexity of experimental procedures, and the need for stringent organization, security, and accessibility.

Secondary challenges: The lack of a method to trace algae movement between vessels of different sizes hinders our client’s ability to reconstruct lineage in case of contamination or culture destruction. To ensure critical data such as cell density and nitrate concentration are accurately recorded and easily accessible, they considered a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS); however, it proved too costly and didn’t align with their specific processes in full.

Faced with these challenges, our client sought an affordable solution that would enhance traceability and improve the efficiency of handling contamination or culture destruction.

Solution

Implementation and customization of ready-made LIMS

Recognizing the need for a specialized information management solution, Innowise has embraced the opportunity to implement and customize a ready-made system. This approach was chosen to save the client money as platform-based solutions are more affordable compared to developing a custom LIMS from scratch.

Excel-like data integration and calculation automation

We’ve integrated LabCollector and set up the samples module to mirror the columns used in the previous Excel sheets. While LabCollector doesn’t support the exact flexibility of Excel formulas, we found a workaround. Our solution allows for recalculations and database updates directly, aligning with Excel-like calculations. This customization simplifies data entry and management by maintaining consistency with existing formats. It automates calculations within LabCollector, boosting efficiency and minimizing manual data tasks.

Lineage tracking functionality

We’ve configured lineage tracking functionality into LabCollector’s samples module. This feature enables the creation of directed graphs to visualize and trace the lineage of algae samples across different vessels or experimental stages. It facilitates easy identification of sample origins and movement paths, which is critical for managing and troubleshooting contamination or culture destruction.

Inventory management and batch updates

Our team has merged the custom samples module with the inventory module to track individual vessels enabling inventory management. In order to efficiently manage uniform nutrient additions across multiple vessels, we’ve implemented batch update functionality within the samples module. It reduces manual workload and minimizes errors associated with individual data entry, enhancing operational efficiency in maintaining algae cultures.

Data migration and authorization

To preserve valuable past data and ensure continuity, we’ve migrated historical data into the new system. Addressing strict organizational standards, we’ve established a robust authorization and permissions system to control access securely. Finally, to integrate seamlessly with existing operations, our team has deployed the solution in the client’s infrastructure (IWS). This approach not only has maintained a comprehensive historical reference but also guaranteed secure access control.

Technologies

Back-end

PHP, MySQL

DevOps/Cloud

AWS, Docker

Environment

Visual Studio Code

Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)

Lab Collector

Process

In our project process, we chose the methodology based on the SCRUM the Scrum framework to break the process into manageable sprints, allowing for continuous feedback and improvements. Our team used Google Meet for effective, real-time interaction among team members and stakeholders, keeping everyone updated on the project’s progress. We used JIRA as our backlog management system to track sprints, backlogs, and issues, ensuring high organization and transparency in the project flow.

Additionally, our business analyst dug into all the client’s processes, understanding how everything was organized and identifying the best way to integrate these processes into the new solution. This committed approach helped our team accomplish a project customized to the client’s needs, ensuring a smooth and efficient shift to the new system.

Team

Business Analyst

PHP Developer

Database Development Analyst

Platform Customization Specialist

QA Specialist

Project Coordinator

DevOps Engineer

Results

A 99% reduction in algae data errors after LIMS customization

We aimed to optimize the growth and health of algae cultures by tracking and adjusting the nutrients and conditions. Guided by this goal, our team has implemented LIMS, enabling seamless algae lineage tracking and inventory management, while delivering a cost-effective solution to our client.

The impact is evident in several key performance metrics:

Increased team performance: Previously, managing and updating data stored in Excel files on SharePoint posed challenges, especially concerning simultaneous updates and version control. Centralized storage and automated synchronization mechanisms ensure that all team members are working with the most current and accurate data, eliminating the need for manual consolidation and reducing the risk of data discrepancies.
Enhanced data visualization: A significant advancement has been the introduction of lineage visualization, a feature entirely absent in Excel. Lineage visualization helps easily reconstruct the ascendance path (genealogy) of each algae, providing insights into optimal growth conditions and nutrient management strategies.
Streamlined decision-making: For the board of directors, enhanced visibility includes comprehensive analytics on algae metrics, crucial for informed decisions and strategic planning in optimizing algae-based animal feed production. This streamlined approach drives innovation and sustainability in harnessing algae for advanced feed formulations.

Innowise’s strategic adoption of a customized, ready-made information management system not only met the specialized needs of our client but also reduced costs compared to developing a custom solution from scratch. This approach has facilitated streamlined data management and enhanced insights into nutrient utilization across algae strains, which is critical for optimizing conditions in animal feed production.

Project duration

December 2023 - February 2024

20%

boost in team performance

99%

reduction in algae data errors

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