Breakthroughs in Technology Are Changing the Way Medicine is Studied – The Revolution is Happening in Your Lab!

Medicine has been a field of study for centuries as humans endeavour to understand the secrets and intricacies of the human body. Amazingly laboratory equipment is changing rapidly, research is developing, and results are improving day by day. We’ll investigate some of the tools that are now available, spurring on the medical progress that makes life better today.

What does the term “laboratory equipment” refer to?

Laboratory equipment varies hugely depending on the field of study. It refers to the numerous and differing tools and equipment used by scientists that operate in a laboratory. The classical equipment, which is what most people think of when they hear of the subject, includes tools like Bunsen burners and microscopes. On the other hand, there is speciality equipment like operant conditioning chambers and calorimeters that work for students of specific areas.

The equipment used in a laboratory is used to either assist in an experiment, to take measurements, or to collect data. If the tools are larger or more sophisticated, they are often referred to as scientific instruments.

The standards of a laboratory have grown and developed over the years and these days, it’s a digital transformation that is revolutionising the lab as we know it. In 2022 alone, a huge $1.97 trillion is expected to be spent on the global digital transformation in the areas of pharma, biotech, and life sciences. Higher business expectations, the complexity of recorded data and the involvement of new technology have been the forceful momentum behind this transformation. Furthermore, the needs highlighted by the restrictions of the Covid-19 pandemic set the precedent for needing a workforce that can function digitally. Labs need to have the ability to connect remotely and work together as a team.

So, what considerations need to be taken into account as you embark into the world of the digital laboratory?

Seven Steps for Success in Transforming Your Lab

1. Dealing with the data

   With the increase in data and the need for analytical capabilities, streamlined workflows and improved data insights, a digital reform is a necessity. 60% of decision-makers within the lab have found that there has been a significant increase in the amount of data they need to collect and analyse. Business directors need to be aware of this influx and make the digital transformations needed to support these changes. To work along with this, there will need to be other systems in place to manage the growing data, such as security measures and a common user interface.

2. Making a smooth transition depends on the lab

   Implementing laboratory information management systems is a great way to record results for many labs whereas others may want to implement a system based on the Internet of Lab Things. The digital transformation will look different for every lab, so it’s important to make an informed decision that’s best for each individual team.

3. Set trends, don’t follow them

   Don’t make major decisions about the digital transformation of your lab just because other labs are. It’s important to keep the lab’s own business objectives in mind so that these objectives can be met over the course of the project.

4. Remember and understand the priorities

   It’s easy to get weighed down with the small stuff but focus on the goals of the digital transformation and work on modernising the processes in order of importance as to how these goals will be met. By putting the more urgent issues first, the whole transition process will be a lot smoother and a lot more successful.

5. Take your time and choose carefully

   A choice centred on the user’s requirements, balanced against the needs of the workflow, will work out best for everyone involved. Most of us don’t like change at the best of times and with this in mind, it’s ideal to get everyone on board by making decisions with their best interests at heart.

6. Work as a team

   On the subject of getting everyone on board, it’s essential that the whole team is dedicated to the success of the project and can give their all to ensure its completion. There will be a variety of skill sets and experience required as the project runs its course so it will be to the benefit of all if everyone can pool their resources together to help it run smoothly. From project management to business leadership, and business analysis to experts in the lab, all these skills and roles will be needed and valued. A digital transformation is an ongoing process, not a one-off accomplishment so it’s important to establish this team to be able to operate for a longer period.

7. Don’t fear asking for help.

   This project will be a big undertaking, especially for a team that has little experience in the matter. In a situation like this, it will be invaluable to get the assistance of an external expert. Their skills and relevant experience will greatly enhance the whole venture and help to ensure its success. They will be able to offer priceless insights into the pitfalls and pros and the transformation and how to both pre-empt and handle any issues that arise. With such a wealth of knowledge on your side, any hiccups along the road won’t put you out of action for long.

Why make the change?

As we’ve discussed, more powerful tools and equipment are needed to help support the labs of the 21st century. It’s helping scientists to achieve more and make a bigger impact while also helping organisations work towards their bigger business goals. Research suggests that by the year 2026, two-thirds of all life science companies will have implemented the “intelligent lab of the future” model and transformed their workspaces to fit in with the digital age we now live and operate in. Remember, changes don’t have to be permanent as the methods and policies need to remain flexible. See how things work, get feedback, be adaptable and you’ll create a modern, efficient lab that works towards success.