How a Swiss biotech company optimized reagent management with a smart, automated system
Managing reagent requests in biotech laboratories is often a complex, time-consuming task. Scientists must ensure the availability of compounds, plasmids, and assays while navigating multiple vendors and internal locations. A Swiss biotech company faced these challenges and sought an efficient, automated solution that integrated seamlessly with their existing Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
Challenge
The company needed a streamlined process for lab scientists to request reagents. The existing method was inefficient, leading to delays and miscommunication. Key pain points included:
- Difficulty tracking reagent availability.
- Lack of visibility into request status.
- Inefficient communication between scientists and managers.
- The need for a lightweight but scalable system compatible with their current LIMS.
Approach
To address these challenges, the company developed a Reagent Request Application, leveraging modern technology for automation and integration. The key features included:
- Jira Ticketing System: Used to track the status of reagent requests.
- Dashboard for Lab Scientists: Allowed real-time reagent availability checks and request validation.
- Jira Integration for Managers: Provided ticket status updates and filtering options.
- Lambda Functions & APIs: Enabled automation by interacting with Jira and LIMS to trigger ticket updates.
- Serverless Infrastructure: Ensured a lightweight, scalable, and efficient system.
The application was built using a Python, React.js, and TypeScript tech stack, integrating with tools like Benchling, CDD Vault, ELN, OpenSearch, and Athena for enhanced functionality.
Tools and data flow overview
Technological stack
Results
The new system transformed the reagent request process:
Efficient Tracking: Scientists and managers could monitor reagent requests effortlessly.
Improved Communication: Automated updates reduced delays and improved collaboration.
Scalability & Flexibility: The serverless architecture ensured seamless expansion as needed.
Enhanced Workflow: The integration with existing LIMS streamlined the entire process.
By implementing a smart, automated Reagent Request Application, this Swiss biotech company significantly improved lab operations. The system not only optimized reagent management but also set the foundation for a more efficient and scalable workflow. This case study highlights how the right technology can transform laboratory efficiency, making scientific research more streamlined and productive.
