Unit 4 – Topic 3
LIMS allows you to handle samples and data online. Information can be stored in a variety of
ways, including on paper or on a computer. Files and folders are useful for storing information
because everything is in one location. However, if there is a fire or a flood, all the files will be
lost and there will be no way to recover them. Another useful technique to save information is
to use computer storage such as spreadsheets or online files. This is because it requires less
storage space than a paper-based system. However, because the information is available
online, hackers may be able to access it. Data storage is critical for any business. Data storage is
very important for any company. Data storage protects information from external dangers,
human mistakes, and system failures.
The data that is stored in a forensic lab is equipment checks and analysis findings. Evidence
such as DNA, fingerprints, used shell casings, and even tyre tracks are evaluated in forensic
laboratories to determine whether a crime has occurred and who the perpetrator is. The police,
defense lawyers, and CPS would be the customers, as they would provide regular updates on
the case. The information is gathered through forensic examination of investigation updates
and police communication. NDNAD and NAFIS, which are big data collections, can also provide
data. Cloud computing is used by forensic labs to increase the variety and productivity of their
LIMS software. Cloud services are in high demand due to their ability to reduce
hardware/software purchases and eliminate the requirement to change the current system
design. The cloud may significantly cut the time it takes to launch a project while also saving
money on hardware and IT support. Authentication will be required for transfers to and from
secure sites, and the LIMS will verify that the users have external access to those specified
locations. Data is kept on a secure server in an online lab database. Case files arrange the data,
which is retrieved via case files via police communication. In a forensic lab, materials that
should have a unique identity are tracked using a barcode across the system to ensure
traceability. Knowing the sample, for example, genealogy, is critical in DNA, which means that
all quality controls and reagents must be traceable. Users should be invited to sign electronic
signatures if they follow specific steps. Procedures that require a witness should be able to be
customized by the laboratory. There are also other ethical considerations, such as personal data
and crime data. Employees can use data storage to find specific folders or files more quickly.
The corporation can also utilize hard drives or any other storage device instead of paper copies.
Patient records, equipment checkups, and test results are all stored in a medical lab. The
patient is the client, and the data is gathered from medical records, which is utilised to compare
past tests. Your lab personnel will find it easier to learn and adapt to a highly adaptable LIMS
for data storage. Paper notes are one method of data storage in a medical lab. The advantages
are that they are portable, allowing you to transport them wherever in the lab, and they are
inexpensive compared to purchasing digital storage. However, the disadvantage is that they are
easy to misplace because they are easy to lose and destroy. Also, while working in a lab, you
might be busy and it's hard to write all the notes down, which can be time-consuming.