How to implement an electronic lab notebook system: new guidance
Many university chemistry departments are considering the move to an electronic lab notebook (ELN) system to streamline processes and unlock the potential of research data.
New guidance is now available to help them successfully navigate the implementation journey and avoid potential pitfalls, written by experts at the University of Southampton’s School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering.
The whitepaper, by Dr Samantha Pearman-Kanza and Dr Matthew Partridge, provides practical guidance for chemistry departments who want to implement, improve or maintain an ELN. It draws on insights from the School’s recent introduction of its own ELN, along with wider engagement with the research data and digital research infrastructure communities.
Read the whitepaper hereThe whitepaper:
- sets out key criteria for choosing an ELN platform
- examines implementation in practice, emphasising key aspects such as process mapping, realistic trials, laboratory hardware, training and continued support
- considers change management and governance, acknowledging the importance of stakeholder engagement and communication for embedding the use of ELN into everyday research culture
- emphasises the role of ELNs as long-term research infrastructure, requiring ongoing resourcing and stewardship
Samantha says: “Over the last decade at Southampton we’ve gone from ‘researchers are not ready to give up paper’ to fully implementing and rolling out an ELN across our entire Chemistry and Chemical Engineering department. We’re delighted to share the learning we’ve gained along the way.”
Matthew adds: “In this whitepaper we’ve distilled a huge amount of ELN knowledge and experience into what we hope is clear, practical and accessible guidance.”
The whitepaper is published by the Physical Sciences Data Infrastructure, a national programme to connect research data sources to accelerate discovery, of which the University of Southampton is a lead partner.