Efficiency in the Multicentre Laboratory: Exploring the LIMS Advantages
Table of contents
What is a multicentre laboratory y un laboratorio multisede
In principle, there are two different models: the multisite laboratory and the multicentre laboratory.
A multisite laboratory refers to a single laboratory organisation or company that conducts its activities in more than one physical location or branch office, operating under the same management.
A multisite laboratory must operate under a single Quality Management System (QMS). This means that procedures, training, quality controls and accreditation (such as ISO 15189 or ISO 17025) are applied uniformly across all locations.
Depending on its functions, the multisite system can have two main models: 'Hub-and-Spoke Model', which has central headquarters and satellite sample collection centres; and the 'Network Model', which has multiple processing centres.
A multicentre laboratory on the other hand, refers to several laboratory organisations or companies that carry out their activities in different locations with a collaborative objective.
However, a multicentre laboratory does not operate under one single QMS. This means that procedures, training, quality controls and accreditation (such as ISO 15189 or ISO 17025) are applied individually by each entity or centre that comprises it.
Find out how Zendo Lims works for multicentre and multisite laboratories in the cloud
What is a LIMS for multicentre laboratories
A multi-centre or multi-site Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) is designed to operate in several locations or facilities simultaneously, working on a centralised database.
Unlike traditional LIMS, which are designed for a single laboratory, the multi-centre or multi-lab version enables the unified management of a laboratory network. Its most notable features include real-time data exchange, sample referral among different centres, inventory control by centre, location or section, and global functional and statistical analysis by centre or area.
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Advantages of LIMS for improving the efficiency of multicentre laboratories
A LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) is essential for laboratories with multiple locations and extraction centres, as it centralises, standardises and securely controls all laboratory information.
Without a LIMS, a laboratory with multiple locations faces fragmented management, more errors, and less control and traceability. On the other hand, a LIMS connects the entire laboratory operating ecosystem, ensuring efficiency, quality, and confidence in results.
Centralisation of information
When a laboratory has multiple locations or sample collection points, a LIMS unifies all information on a single platform, regardless of where the data is generated.
This prevents duplication and errors in records.
It facilitates access to real-time results and data.
It enables more transparent management between locations.
Complete process traceability
A LIMS system records every step of the sample lifecycle, from collection at the extraction centre through to transport, analysis, validation and delivery of results. This ensures:
Complete traceability and simpler audits.
Take control of the integrity and location of each sample.
Errors or incidents can be quickly identified.
Standardisation of processes
There may be slight operational differences between each branch or extraction centre. LIMS enables these procedures to be standardised, ensuring that everyone works under the same quality standards and regulations. This is key to:
Complying with standards such as ISO 15189 or ISO 17025.
Ensuring consistency of results across different locations or centres.
LIMS Implementation: Error-Free Automation
Automation and efficiency
LIMS automates administrative and technical tasks, reducing the manual workload and minimising errors, such as:
Generation of barcodes and labels
Automatic validation of results
Sending reports to doctors, patients or institutions
Integration with other systems
An efficient LIMS system can integrate with different systems and equipment, improving the flow of information between all business areas. It can be connected to systems that integrate the laboratory ecosystem, such as:
ERP or billing systems to manage collections and insurance.
Read more about LIMS integration with ERP systems
In the clinical sector, it can be connected to HIS or LIS platforms of partner hospitals, and in the industrial sector, it can be connected to MES (Manufacturing Execution System).
Laboratory analytical and measurement equipment can automatically send results and allow work lists to be loaded automatically.
Data analysis and Quality Control
By centralising data, LIMS makes it easier to monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and generate reports. With this information, management can make strategic decisions based on real data.
The most notable KPIs are:
Delivery times and delay percentages
Volume of processed samples
Deviations or non-conformities
Regulatory compliance and security
LIMS helps you to comply with data protection regulations, such as GDPR and local laws, as well as GMP and GLP. It ensures that:
Control access based on each user's role
Audit history and traceability
Backup and encryption of information entered and exchanged
