Enhancing User Experience and Protocol Automation with Lockbox Query and Flow-Supported Actions
Summary
- Laboratories rely on efficient data management and seamless protocol execution to maintain accuracy and productivity.
- Lockbox 2.0 introduces query and flow supported actions that enhance the user experience by allowing developers and administrators to design custom, intuitive, user-friendly, and automated workflows that mirror real-world laboratory processes.
- Protocol execution in Lockbox LIMS contains descriptive instructions and actionable steps.
- Lockbox LIMS integrates sample management and protocol execution, allowing users to edit samples, libraries, derived samples, and pools from within protocol execution.
- Custom query and flow supported actions expand functionality to any database object or action definable in a flow.
Importance of Protocol Execution In a LIMS
Protocol design is integral to scientists’ jobs because it allows them to standardize operating procedures so that different users can perform the same task, produce uniform data, and avoid biases due to differences in sample handling. Repeatable results are based on consistent and repeatable procedures that reduce batch-to-batch data variation. In regulated environments, lab personnel must be trained on the standard operating procedures before they can perform experiments. Protocol execution within Lockbox LIMS allows users to connect protocols to samples and/or libraries to enhance traceability, organization, and efficiency.
Laboratory protocols require regular updates due to operation changes, manufacturer reagent upgrades, or procedure modifications. A system to store protocols and procedures and track changes to document versions is essential in a modern laboratory.
In Lockbox LIMS, each protocol and procedure is a detailed, step-by-step set of instructions for preparing samples or performing tasks. It outlines the specific methods and techniques involved in ensuring reproducibility and consistency. It also includes any necessary reagents, instruments, and conditions to optimize the generation of high-quality data.
In Lockbox LIMS, procedures are comprised of two types of components: descriptive and actionable.
- Descriptive Component: Provides the user with a clear written or pictorial description of the required steps. This assists with setting up an instrument, performing a task, or reviewing health and safety information.
- Actionable Component: Provides the user with an interface to enter data, update statuses, or create new sample or library records.
In Lockbox, each step in a procedure accommodates both component types, enabling users to choose one type or combine them as needed. Lockbox supports descriptive actions through rich text formatting, allowing users to highlight important information or create bullet lists. Additionally, users can incorporate images to help guide others toward the expected outcome or to a specific instrument setting screen.
Challenges of Traditional Protocol Management
Traditional protocol management involves keeping protocols in binders or static, digital shared folders. With this traditional protocol management, errors can easily occur when lab personnel execute protocols using old versions located on their desks or workstations.
First-generation digital protocol management systems are limited by the need for frequent updates, antiquated version control, lack of support for large sample sizes, and lack of integration with LIMS and instrumentation. Some digital systems do not allow users to enter data and do not contain any validation. This leads to errors and requires time-consuming checks to assure valid test result data.
Lockbox 2.0 Elevates Protocol Management
Since its launch in 2018, Lockbox’s Protocol Execution tool has continuously evolved with new functionality introduced in every major release. Through those additions, the tool supports the editing of samples, libraries, pools, inventories, procedures, and protocols. Additionally, the tool allows for the creation of libraries and derived samples.
Lockbox 2.0 has enhanced actionable instructions and provides users with new features to support and improve user interactions. These changes expand functionality to any database object or any action definable in a flow. Eliminating the static documents in traditional protocol management ensures that laboratory staff utilize the most up-to-date version of the protocol, leading to increased data integrity and reproducibility.
The enhancements to actionable steps allow administrators to go beyond the standard Lockbox data model and build protocols fully configured to mirror real-world laboratory processes. Data can be entered or imported from instruments in real time while you are completing the protocol. These changes enable users to complete entire workflows from within the procedure execution page. For example, the NGS workflow has been greatly enhanced to allow sample, library, flow cell, run, and sample sheet generation within protocol execution.
Lockbox 2.0 delivers the feature updates most requested by our users. We are excited to see the product development that has been achieved by responding to the input of the Lockbox user community. We listen to our customers and provide them with a powerful tool to make their protocol-building journey easier and more intuitive.
Benefits of Query and Flow-Supported Actions
Query and Flow Supported Actions offer powerful tools for administrators to customize user experiences within Lockbox without requiring deep technical expertise. Leveraging these tools, administrators can create tailored actions that display or edit records based on specific criteria, making it easier to manage and interact with data. This is especially beneficial for handling complex records like samples, libraries, or protocols. Additionally, the Flow Supported Action streamlines processes by triggering automated workflows directly from a customized button, helping teams automate repetitive tasks efficiently. Both options are configured via easy-to-manage metadata records, making them flexible and user-friendly for a wide range of use cases.
These features empower administrators with the flexibility to build efficient workflows to meet the needs of the laboratory without writing any code. Lockbox users benefit from the community-driven development of custom tools that may be easily used within their organization.
Conclusion
Lockbox 2.0’s Query and Flow Supported Actions provide laboratories with the tools necessary to enhance the user interface and automate protocol execution through dynamic data interaction. Lockbox LIMS empowers scientists and administrators to work more efficiently, reduce errors, and maintain high data integrity. These enhancements are a significant step forward in making laboratory software more powerful, flexible, and user-friendly. Contact us to learn how Lockbox LIMS can assist you and your laboratory processes.