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LIMS Lab - [FP]-LIMS helps you work even more efficiently

Thanks to [FP]-LIMS, your LIMS lab will become even more efficient.

Thanks to [FP]-LIMS, your LIMS lab will become even more efficient.

What is a LIMS?

A LIMS handles the central management of all data generated in the LIMS lab. From samples to methods and recipes to personnel organization. It reaches its full potential when it is networked with existing systems and measuring devices via interfaces. This allows information to be transferred automatically and error-free, without any loss of time due to manual entries. At the same time, teams can work with the same data in parallel across different locations.

Further information on the topic of LIMS can be found here.

What makes [FP]-LIMS particularly special? Modular, adaptable, flexible.

[FP]-LIMS is a modular laboratory information and management system that you can tailor precisely to your requirements. You start with the functions you currently need, such as Analysis Management, inspection orders, or reporting, and later expand the solution with additional modules such as Recipe Management, Workflow Management, or interfaces to ERP and MES systems as needed. This keeps the software lean and cost-efficient, allowing it to grow step by step with your tasks.

At the same time, [FP]-LIMS impresses with its high flexibility and adaptability: inspection plans, input masks, workflows, and evaluations can be adapted to your processes, standards, and industry-specific requirements, from small single-user laboratories to international corporations. The system integrates seamlessly into your existing IT landscape via open interfaces and can be easily scaled, for example, for new locations, additional measuring devices, or changed conditions. In short: [FP]-LIMS adapts to your LIMS Lab, not the other way around.

Thanks to [FP]-LIMS, your LIMS lab will become even more efficient.

Which editions of the LIMS system are available?

With Free-LIMS, Fink & Partner provides a free [FP]-LIMS edition for non-profits, educational institutions, and learners. In addition, there are three other editions to choose from, each tailored to the size of the laboratory and the area of application.

[FP]-LIMS Editions
  • Light

    [FP]-LIMS Light is the ideal entry-level solution for small laboratories with only one measuring device that want to move away from Excel lists and isolated applications and switch to a professional LIMS. The software controls the entire analysis management process, stores all data centrally and in a structured manner, and makes laboratory values easy to find and evaluate in seconds. This gives you greater transparency over your measurement data, minimizes manual errors, and establishes a solid basis for digitally organized laboratory work.

    At the same time, [FP]-LIMS Light remains deliberately lean and economical: you start with a powerful single-user system including connection to one measuring device and can upgrade to higher editions or add supplementary modules at any time as needed. This makes [FP]-LIMS Light the ideal first step toward Industry 4.0: start small, standardize processes securely, and then let the solution grow flexibly with your LIMS laboratory and your company.

The [FP]-LIMS modules

Analysis Management

The [FP]-LIMS Analysis Management system is the central base module of the LIMS and thus the heart of your solution. Here, all measurement and inspection results from your laboratories are bundled, clearly structured, seamlessly documented, and securely archived. Analysis data can be centrally recorded, validated, and stored historically. This allows you to quickly access previous results at any time, identify trends, and reliably provide evidence for audits or customer requirements.

As the basis of the system, Analysis Management is designed to be flexible: measurement variables, units, limit values, and input masks can be tailored precisely to your processes and industry-specific requirements. Building on this, additional [FP] LIMS modules such as Inspection Order Management, Recipe Management, or Workflow Management can be seamlessly integrated. You start with a strong, practice-oriented core and then expand your LIMS step by step, at exactly the pace and to the extent that your laboratory needs.

LIMS Lab - [FP]-LIMS Analysis Management.png
LIMS Lab - [FP]-LIMS Inspection Order Management

Inspection Order Management

The [FP]-LIMS Inspection Order Management system expands analysis management to include clear and systematic control of all inspection orders in the LIMS laboratory. From sample acceptance and registration to assignment to inspection plans and measuring devices to result verification and release, it is possible to track which orders are open, in progress, or completed at any time. Status, priorities, and responsibilities are displayed transparently, avoiding bottlenecks, reducing queries, and preventing duplication of work. At the same time, every inspection order is fully documented and can therefore be traced at any time.

In addition, Inspection Order Management forms the basis for more efficient, quality-assured processes in line with Industry 4.0. Workflows can be tailored precisely to your processes, approval levels can be defined, and automatic notifications can be set up. Together with other [FP]-LIMS modules such as analysis management, ELN, or interfaces to ERP and MES systems, this creates a continuous digital testing process that shortens processing times, minimizes sources of error, and makes your laboratory organization stable and auditable in the long term.

Electronic lab notebook

An Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN) replaces the traditional paper lab notebook with digital, centralized documentation. Inspection orders, measurement series, observations, attachments such as images or PDFs, and team comments are recorded in a structured and audit-proof manner. This ensures that no information is lost, changes remain transparent and traceable, and everyone involved is always working with the latest information, regardless of where they are in your LIMS lab.

In conjunction with a LIMS such as [FP]-LIMS, the ELN becomes the central knowledge platform in the LIMS lab: measurement data from connected devices, inspection orders, or recipes can be directly linked to notes and evaluations. Templates, powerful search functions, and defined workflows noticeably simplify daily work, from research and development to quality assurance in routine analysis.

LIMS Lab - [FP]-LIMS ELN.png
LIMS Lab - [FP]-LIMS Production Dashboard

Production Dashboard

The [FP]-LIMS Production Dashboard makes quality data in manufacturing immediately visible and easy to understand. A central interface gives you an overview of the most important key figures for current batches, open inspection orders, and limit violations at all times. Instead of switching between multiple systems or Excel lists, production management, shift supervisors, and quality management receive a clear, visual real-time display, including warning messages as soon as measured values approach critical limits. This allows you to intervene early on before deviations lead to scrap, rework, or delivery delays.

In addition, the dashboard provides greater transparency regarding trends and causes: Which plants, lines, or batches are more prone to deviations? Where do certain error patterns occur more frequently? By directly linking LIMS lab and production data, correlations can be identified more quickly and optimization potential can be exploited in a targeted manner. The result is less scrap, more stable processes, and a traceable, data-based foundation for reliable production control.

Recipe Management

The [FP]-LIMS Recipe Management module helps you control complex mixtures and alloys reliably, consistently, and reproducibly. Recipes are maintained centrally in the LIMS, including target values, tolerances, and raw material and batch data. This ensures that the LIMS laboratory, production, and quality assurance departments always work with the same approved data and that every batch meets the specified requirements. Adjustments to recipes are fully documented and traceable at all times, providing added transparency for customers, auditors, and internal requirements.

In combination with Inspection Order Management and the Production Dashboard, Recipe Management really comes into its own: target/actual deviations are identified early on, corrective measures can be derived in a targeted manner, and raw material consumption can be controlled more efficiently. Optionally, the solution can be connected to existing ERP or MES systems, creating a continuous digital flow of information from recipe development through production to final quality control.

LIMS Lab - [FP]-LIMS Recipe Management
LIMS Lab - Workflow Management

Workflow Management

[FP]-LIMS Workflow Management links all laboratory activities to form consistent, clearly defined process chains. From sample acceptance and analysis to release and feedback to production or the ERP system, all tasks are mapped in logical, sequential steps. Responsibilities, deadlines, and quality specifications are clearly defined, so every team member knows what step is next at all times. This eliminates media breaks, manual transfers, and paper-based notes.

At the same time, Workflow Management remains highly adaptable: processes can be precisely tailored to your internal procedures, applicable standards, and customer-specific requirements, and can be expanded or improved at any time as needed. Automated status changes, notifications, and escalation mechanisms help to shorten throughput times, increase transparency, and minimize sources of error. This transforms [FP]-LIMS from a mere data system into a central platform for controlling LIMS laboratory and quality processes.

Workflow Actions

Workflow Actions in [FP]-LIMS are automatic background functions that support your laboratory processes in a stable, fast, and error-free manner. You specify once which reaction a specific event should trigger, and the system takes care of the rest: inspection orders are created automatically, status values are updated, responsible persons are informed, data is transferred to ERP/MES, documents are generated, or approvals are initiated. This turns fixed procedures into dynamic workflows that think for themselves and noticeably reduce your team’s workload in everyday life.

At the same time, Workflow Actions improve process reliability. Manual intermediate steps, sticky notes, and verbal reminders are replaced by clearly defined rules. Every action is clearly documented and traceable at all times, a clear advantage for audits, compliance requirements, and professional quality management. From simple email notifications to multi-step follow-up actions, Workflow Actions make [FP]-LIMS an active control tool for laboratories and production.

LIMS Lab - Workflow Actions
LIMS Lab - Validation module

Validation Module

The [FP]-LIMS Validation Module ensures that only verified and traceably plausible measured values are transferred to your LIMS. It performs automated plausibility and quality checks on your analysis data, such as limit value checks, comparison with reference samples, trend analyses, or deviation evaluations. Abnormal results are automatically flagged and can be returned for review or documented with comments, causes, and explanations. This significantly improves the data quality in the system and creates a reliable basis for evaluations, audits, and decisions.

At the same time, the validation module can be tailored precisely to your specifications. Review and approval processes, roles and responsibilities, escalation levels, and documentation requirements can be configured according to your internal QA rules, from simple dual control approval to multi-level workflows. Together with Analysis Management, Inspection Order Management, and other [FP]-LIMS modules, this creates a consistent, audit-proof validation process that minimizes errors, increases transparency, and reliably supports your compliance requirements.

Certified SAP interface

The SAP interface of [FP]-LIMS seamlessly connects your LIMS laboratory to your SAP system landscape, without media breaks or duplicate data entry. Inspection orders, batches, material master data, and analysis results are automatically exchanged between [FP]-LIMS and SAP. This means that laboratory results are available directly in SAP QM, purchasing, or production, while test batches and master data from SAP can be used in a structured and convenient manner in the LIMS. This creates consistent, reliable processes and a consistent database throughout the entire company.

The interface remains flexible and customizable: Master data structures, process flows, and posting scenarios can be configured as needed, from goods receipt to in-process controls to final inspection. Whether classic SAP QM or S/4HANA: [FP]-LIMS integrates seamlessly into your existing IT landscape and makes your LIMS laboratory a fully integrated part of the digital value chain.

LIMS Lab - Certified SAP Interface

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Transaction data in LIMS - Flexibility and Application Diversity with [FP]-LIMS

Transaction Data in LIMS – Flexibility and Application Diversity with [FP]-LIMS

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Transaction data in LIMS - Flexibility and Application Diversity with [FP]-LIMS

Transaction Data in LIMS Flexibility and Application Diversity with [FP]-LIMS

Transaction data play a central role in modern Laboratory Information and Management Systems (LIMS). They document key processes and ensure transparency, traceability, and significant efficiency improvements in laboratory workflows.

With [FP]-LIMS, a flexible system is available that seamlessly integrates transaction data into various laboratory applications, offering a wide range of use cases. This article demonstrates how transaction data can be utilized with [FP]-LIMS to make laboratories more efficient and secure.

Flexible and customizable LIMS software at an affordable price - [FP]-LIMS

What are Transaction Data in LIMS?

Transaction data are information that document changes, handovers, or processes involving objects, people, or workflows within the laboratory. They complement analytical data with contextual information that is essential for transparency and comprehensive traceability.

In day-to-day lab operations, transaction data ensure that all processes – from sample handling to equipment maintenance and material management – are efficiently planned and controlled. This supports quality assurance and facilitates compliance with regulatory requirements.

Transaction Data in [FP]-LIMS – Application Areas

Inspection Orders and Sample Management

Transaction data are essential for the seamless tracking of test orders and samples. With [FP]-LIMS, sample movements can be documented from collection to analysis. This includes:

  • Timestamps: Creation, processing, and completion of test orders are automatically recorded.

  • Sample Handover: Transfers between laboratory sections or devices are transparently documented.

  • Time-sensitive Tests: Transaction data assist in meeting deadlines and organizing time-critical processes.

Additionally, maintenance and monitoring of test equipment can be efficiently managed using transaction data.

Equipment and Instrument Management

Transaction data provide comprehensive transparency regarding the use and maintenance of equipment and instruments:

  • Equipment Movement: Usage locations, calibrations, and maintenance activities are clearly tracked.

  • Instrument Monitoring: Transaction data ensure the validity of instruments and that only operational equipment is used.

Transaction data - Device management
Transaction data - Inventory Management

Competency Management

Transaction data are invaluable for competency management:

  • Training and Certifications: Tracking individual transaction data helps organize qualifications and manage certification renewals.

  • Instrument Competency: Documentation identifies which individuals are authorized to use specific equipment or instruments.

Material Movements and Inventory Management

Transaction data optimize inventory and stock management:

  • Stock Movements: Material transfers between storage locations and laboratory units are made transparent.

  • Reagent Monitoring: Transaction data link inventory with expiration dates and usage information, ensuring availability and safety.

  • Traceability: All material movements are fully documented and always traceable.

Benefits of Transaction Data in [FP]-LIMS

Traceability and Auditability

Transaction data provide complete transparency of processes and handovers. This greatly simplifies preparation for audits, as all data are revision-proof and comprehensively documented.

Automation and Efficiency

Through automated notifications and workflows, time-sensitive tests and maintenance can be efficiently executed. Laboratory staff are actively supported in meeting deadlines and requirements, reducing workload.

Quality and Safety Management

Transaction data ensure that only authorized personnel and verified equipment are used. They monitor deadlines, validity, and processes, contributing to compliance with standards such as ISO 9001, ISO 17025, and ISO 27001.

Why Flexibility is Crucial

[FP]-LIMS stands out for its high flexibility. The system can be tailored to industry-specific requirements and individual workflows. Transaction data can be customized and extended to meet future demands.

Conclusion: Transaction Data as the Key to Efficient Laboratory Operations with [FP]-LIMS

Transaction data are a central component of modern laboratory processes. They ensure transparency, efficiency, and quality assurance in various areas:

  • Test Orders and Sample Management

  • Equipment and Competency Management

  • Material Movements and Inventory Monitoring

With [FP]-LIMS, laboratories can harness the benefits of transaction data. The system supports compliance with standards such as ISO 9001 and ISO 17025, is future-proof with preparation for ISO 27001, and offers a flexible, user-friendly solution for the needs of modern laboratories.

Would you like to learn how [FP]-LIMS can optimize your laboratory processes? Contact us for more information or a demo version.

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Download the whitepaper on the topic now
IT security in the laboratory - requirements for modern laboratory IT

IT security in the laboratory – requirements for modern laboratory IT

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IT security in the laboratory - requirements for modern laboratory IT

IT security in the laboratory - requirements for modern laboratory IT

IT security is becoming increasingly important in laboratories. Protecting sensitive data and ensuring smooth processes are essential in order to meet the high demands placed on modern laboratory environments. With advancing digitalization, strict documentation obligations and increasing regulatory requirements, laboratories are faced with a multitude of new challenges.

Quality officers, laboratory managers and IT managers are faced with the question: How can modern laboratory IT systems master these challenges while ensuring the highest security standards?

Flexible and customizable LIMS software at an affordable price - [FP]-LIMS

The importance of IT security in the laboratory

Robust IT security is the basis for reliable laboratory operations. It ensures that critical data is protected against loss, manipulation and unauthorized access. Strict security precautions are essential, especially in laboratories that work with sensitive research or test data.

Why is IT security so important?

  • Data integrity and availability: Protecting against data loss and ensuring that data is accessible at all times is the foundation for efficient processes.
  • Protection of sensitive information: Research data, test results and other critical information require the highest security standards.
  • Minimize risks: Cyber attacks and data loss are not only a financial threat, but also a regulatory one.
  • Quality management: IT security is an indispensable part of modern laboratory processes and plays a key role in meeting compliance requirements.
IT Lab - Why is IT security so important

Requirements for modern laboratory IT

Modern laboratory IT must fulfill a variety of requirements in order to meet complex needs. For example, mobility plays a decisive role by enabling secure access to laboratory data from mobile devices within protected networks. At the same time, a paperless laboratory facilitates the digitalization of processes, reduces sources of error and ensures more efficient data storage.

Modern IT systems are also characterized by their user-friendliness. They must be intuitive to use and meet the highest security requirements. Another important point is secure data exchange: interfaces to other systems, such as ERP or MES solutions, must work securely and efficiently to ensure interoperability. In addition, there is compliance with documentation obligations, which is ensured by audit-proof storage and traceability of all data.

These characteristics create the basis for an IT infrastructure that is not only secure but also efficient.

IT Laboratory - Regulatory requirements for laboratory IT

Regulatory requirements for laboratory IT

Laboratories must comply with a large number of standards and legal requirements in order to be certified and legally compliant. These include, among others:

  • ISO 9001:2015: this standard requires an effective quality management system. Secure laboratory IT contributes to compliance.
  • ISO 27001: This standard defines requirements for an information security management system that secures processes and data.
  • ISO 17025: Laboratories wishing to be accredited according to this standard require systems such as [FP]-LIMS to meet the requirements.
  • GDPR: Data protection is a key aspect when processing personal data.
  • Network security: Compliance with IT infrastructure requirements, such as the BSI baseline protection manual, is mandatory.

IT security challenges in laboratories

Despite modern technologies, there are always security risks in laboratories that need to be remedied:

  • Outdated systems: older operating systems and hardware are vulnerable to attacks and should be replaced with up-to-date solutions.
  • Network isolation: Separate networks for laboratory systems are necessary to protect sensitive processes.
  • Data backup strategies: Regular backups and the use of firewalls are essential to prevent data loss.
  • Audits and compliance: Laboratory IT systems must be configured to withstand the requirements of internal and external audits.

Conclusion: IT security with [FP]-LIMS

Secure laboratory IT is the key to efficient and compliant laboratory operations. The most important points can be summarized as follows:

IT security provides comprehensive protection against cyber attacks, prevents data loss and ensures compliance requirements are met. Modern IT systems allow regulatory requirements such as ISO 9001:2015, ISO 27001 and ISO 17025 to be implemented effectively. At the same time, user-friendly and secure solutions form the basis for a paperless and future-proof laboratory that can meet the demands of digital transformation.

FP]-LIMS is an IT solution that provides comprehensive support for laboratories:

  • ISO-compliant solution: [FP]-LIMS fulfills all requirements for ISO 9001:2015 and supports ISO 17025 certification.
  • Highest security standards: With the active implementation of ISO 27001, the highest security requirements are guaranteed.
  • User-friendliness: Intuitive operation combined with comprehensive security features.

Get to know [FP]-LIMS! Contact us to find out more about the safety functions and possible applications in your laboratory.

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Download the whitepaper on the topic now
LIMS solution for efficient laboratory analysis

LIMS solution for efficient laboratory analysis

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LIMS solution for efficient laboratory analysis

LIMS Solution: For efficient laboratory analysis

The LIMS solution from Fink & Partner simplifies your entire laboratory processes. As true laboratory process experts with over 30 years of experience in the market, we have already worked with numerous quality departments, laboratories, test laboratories, measuring points from research/development (R&D), and production in a wide range of industries. With the help of our LIMS software, you can finally map your laboratory processes effectively. Work efficiently with your resources and reduce development and production costs.

Arrange a LIMS software demo
Flexible and customizable LIMS software at an affordable price - [FP]-LIMS

Automation & compliance with all standards with FP-LIMS software

The certified interface to ERP systems, such as SAP S/4HANA®, is not only used to manage master data. It can also be used to seamlessly implement the processing of inspection lots, inspection orders, or production orders into the laboratory process.

The connected measuring devices can deliver measurement data to the LIMS software solution completely automatically. The creation of reports, certificates, and attestations can be done automatically with test and production data. If desired, these can be supplemented with relevant process information. Inspection results of raw materials or pre-products can also be mapped on certificates, even if several production orders are assigned to them.

In addition, you can use the LIMS software solution to assign your documentation to the laboratory process and thus store it in an audit-proof manner.

Optimization of your work processes with our LIMS solution

With the LIMS software solution you can:

  • not only monitor individual work processes
  • ensure compliance with your demanding regulations and standards
  • fulfill your documentation obligations without errors
  • make the process audit-proof
  • manage samples
  • evaluate important key figures
  • react quickly to events in the workflow (even macro-controlled).

Universal, easy-to-integrate interfaces allow you to connect all measuring devices and the ERP system (certified SAP interface).

The partner network with the numerous laboratory equipment manufacturers also allows us to always offer you the latest configurations and enhancements. However, the LIMS software solution from Fink & Partner naturally retains its downward compatibility and thus release capability. Thus, your software solution always remains flexibly adaptable according to your wishes and special needs.

The work of your laboratory staff is additionally supported by automated checks, the creation of reports and test certificates as well as individual work instructions. Manual entries and associated errors are reduced to a minimum.

Practical implementation for complex work processes

With [FP]-LIMS you can optimize your laboratory processes and documentation. Your infrastructure can be managed in the best possible way by communicating with your ERP/DCS system, similar to resource management. Conveniently, process- and production-related data can also be integrated and processed:

  • Through the central client-server installation
  • documentation
  • statistical evaluation of all test orders
  • Measurement capability analyses
  • Web access to your data
  • Fast reaction to problems in production through macros/workflow management.

Your quality management is realized by [FP]-LIMS in conformity with standards and at the same time more efficiently. Personnel, as well as high-priced measuring systems and other laboratory equipment, can be used optimally. As a result, potential savings are identified and quality costs are made transparent. Especially for test laboratories or laboratories with several locations, the determination of all relevant costs is a crucial task.

Our software solution will support you easily and quickly in the day-to-day implementation of complex workflows.

We are the right software solution for your laboratory and work processes!

Get in touch with us and let us convince you of our long-standing and industry-independent experience!

Arrange free LIMS Demo now!
Fink & Partner GmbH - 30 years in hindsight

Fink & Partner GmbH – 30 years in hindsight

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Fink & Partner GmbH and the customizable software solution 30 years in hindsight

Flexible and customizable LIMS software at an affordable price - [FP]-LIMS
Peter Niemann, COO Fink & Partner

August 12, 2020 – by Anna Freddi

Almost 30 years of Fink & Partner GmbH: talking to Peter Niemann, managing director of the company, we will discover more about the history of a successful partnership.

Fink & Partner HQ

A.F.: Fink & Partner GmbH has been developing software solutions for the laboratory since 1992. Essential services are the administration and processing of measurement results, which have been continuously expanded over the years and will be steadily expanded. Why did Fink & Partner decide to develop software solutions for laboratories?

P.N.: I participated in co-founding the company Fink & Partner GmbH. Before that, I worked for four years at Spectro Analytical Instruments, a large, world-renowned instrument manufacturer. During my work in this company, I learned what customers need when they want to store, process, or evaluate their measurement results. It was clear to me which methods had to be used to manage the data from the laboratory instruments. From this strategy, the Fink & Partner GmbH was born.

Fink & Partner modules web interface module

A.F.: Fink & Partner GmbH has been developing customizable software solutions based on standardized modules for almost 30 years. What makes a flexible standard solution so unique?

P.N.: A standard software is often not flexible enough to cover the particular requirements of customers that exist in different companies. Each laboratory has specific needs and workflows: This means that every company requires various details. A laboratory software must be able to react to these details, and at the same time, we must be able to adapt a standard solution to these features. That’s why we talk about an adaptable standard solution, and that is what makes our software special.

Which interfaces are possible?

A.F.: Let us talk about the [FP]-LIMS product family: The software developers at Fink & Partner GmbH focus on their customers’ individual requirements. This includes many interfaces for connecting numerous measuring instruments – such as those from Spectro, Hitachi, Thermo Fisher, and many more. How are innovative services combined with many years of know-how?

P.N.: We have been developing LIMS software solutions for the laboratory since 1992. “Know-how” and “experience” connect in our company. Thanks to our many years of experience, on the one hand, we dispose of a construction kit made of many modules, ideas, and approaches. On the other hand, we can combine this with new requirements in the laboratories, which have to be constantly communicated. We have been active in this field for a very long time. No new condition is particularly “exotic” for us: We can react to customer requirements quickly and professionally because we deeply understand them.

What is a LIMS?

A.F.: Fink & Partner GmbH is looking worldwide and into the future: Customizable standard solutions and the more than 6000 installations worldwide award Fink & Partner GmbH. What makes the LIMS software solution designed by Fink & Partner GmbH so different on the global market?

P.N.: We believe we have a pragmatic approach that requires as little administrative effort in the laboratories as possible. What makes our LIMS software different is that we do not work on the administrative side, but on the analytical point of view. We enable the management of the analytics in many laboratories: This often avoids that time-consuming creation of test orders.

SAP® certified

A.F.: 2020 – the year of changes and digitalization. The certified interface to SAP S/4HANA® automates laboratory processes as far as possible, hence creating critical digital innovations. How can [F.P.]-LIMS v2.7, in conjunction with the certified interface to SAP S/4HANA®, make a difference in laboratory processes?

P.N.: The interface to SAP S/4HANA® enables an effective method in the laboratory that breaks down the complex structures in SAP quality management so that work in the laboratory can concentrate on the analytical task. Which means many administrative tasks can be dispensed with. In the higher-level SAP system, work processes can be automated by predefined rules after the data has been made available.

Arrange a free LIMS software demo now
  • When was Fink & Partner founded and why was the company established?

    Fink & Partner was founded in 1992. Its origins lie in the field of laboratory equipment, where the need for reliable software for measurement data management arose.

Registration of Hitachi OEM LIMS version

Registration of Hitachi OEM LIMS version

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Registration of Hitachi OEM LIMS version

REGISTRATION FOR YOUR FP-LIMS PRODUCT YOUR OEM VERSION HAS A “VALID TO” DATE, REGISTER FOR THE UNLIMITED VERSION

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We have established a simple registration process using the form below. After you have registered and we have validated your data, you will receive your new license. You can then collect and analyze your measurement data WITHOUT further steps.

Flexible and customizable LIMS software at an affordable price - [FP]-LIMS

Support and training

Support requests/training requests can also be answered with a validated version. Please understand the necessary process of registration.

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Be flexible with Interface Connection

Be flexible with Interface Connection

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Be flexible with Interface Connection

LIMS Interfaces Connection & API

Our [FP]-LIMS software offers a wide range of interfaces. The interfaces of the LIMS software are universal and thus ensure easy and fast integration of your measurement and ERP systems to make workflows more efficient and minimize errors. Our software brings more than 100 preconfigured instrument interfaces and the software’s structure allows for any extension. Numerous drivers for instrumental analytics from a wide range of instrument manufacturers thus also allow the configuration of any number of serial or even network communication interfaces.

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Flexible and customizable LIMS software at an affordable price - [FP]-LIMS

API TO SAP S/4HANA®, VARIOUS ERP SYSTEMS, LABORATORY INSTRUMENTS, MEASURING SYSTEMS & ANALYZERS

This allows the structured merging of analysis data in numerous formats (such as XLS, XML, CSV, and many more) individually, in groups or manually. The communication between server and client takes place via the most common network protocol TCP/IP.

With the stand-alone configuration of the module, highly economical management of raw materials, recipes, specifications, and analysis results can already be realized. The module can be operated with interfaces to external raw material databases as well as to ERP/PCS systems. In order to optimize internal processes and workflows, it is possible to work together with other [FP]-LIMS modules. The extension options for an overall configuration in the area of quality assurance are, on the one hand, the management of inspection or production orders, and on the other hand, the recording of goods receipts and the writing of certificates.

Interface API to ERP/PCS systems and SAP S/4HANA®.

The [FP]-LIMS software has extensive open interfaces/API to higher-level ERP/PCS systems for intelligent connection. Thus, all core areas of your company can be united in a holistic approach.

The standard interface (IDI) to ERP systems, such as SAP S/4HANA®, is used to manage master data as well as the operational processing of inspection or production orders. Orders can thus be easily imported from the ERP or SAP S/4HANA®, checked in the subsystem, and then validated. Once the check is complete, the results, including observations, recommendations, and specifically documented corrections, are automatically reported back to the higher-level ERP or SAP S/4HANA®. Subsequently, for example, the usage decisions of the checks can be processed centrally.

EXTENSIBILITY OF THE INTERFACES

Thanks to our strong partnerships with major laboratory equipment manufacturers and our more than 30 years of experience, we can draw on a wide range of expertise. This means that we can always guarantee you the best possible, intelligent connection of your analytical instruments, regardless of the laboratory manufacturer, to the [FP]–LIMS software. In addition, no measuring instrument or measurement method is too “exotic” for the LIMS software from Fink und Partner. If a required interface is not already preconfigured, we will find a suitable solution for data transfer for your device. You have to reckon with a maximum integration time of about two days. Please contact us!

BROWSER INTERFACE AS AN INTERFACE FOR INFORMATION RETRIEVAL

The Browser Interface module uses network protocols to communicate via the browser on the work PC and thus provides an interface for querying information from the [FP]-LIMS database. These interfaces will be further developed together with the [FP]-LIMS Browser Interface and will soon be available for use by the [FP]-LIMS software. In addition, this will make it possible to develop customized applications for mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets in the future. It is also conceivable to forward requests from other programs via a documented, open interface API.

SUPERIORITY OF LIMS SOFTWARE

Since the [FP]-LIMS software is a mature and widely tested LIMS, it is superior to an SAP S/4HANA® with an add-on solution in many respects. Thanks to the numerous interfaces, individual laboratory processes can be mapped very flexibly. The connection of even exotic measuring equipment is easily possible thanks to our many years of experience. Cross-order evaluation can be carried out with ease using extremely comprehensive statistical functions.

Another major advantage is the high availability of the self-sufficient subsystem. The LIMS is decoupled from the ERP system and can run independently, even if the higher-level system is not available. Laboratory operations and data management are therefore not interrupted during maintenance work, release upgrades, or unavailability of SAP S/4HANA®. With the highly optimized user interface and functionality tailored to the specific requirements of your laboratory staff, we thus enable smooth and partly automated, highly efficient workflows.

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Sales Interview

Sales Interview

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BEHIND THE SCENES: INTERVIEW WITH THE SALES DEPARTMENT OF FINK & PARTNER GMBH SUCCESSFULLY DISTRIBUTING FP-LIMS NATIONALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY: WHAT DISTINGUISHES THE SALES DEPARTMENT OF FINK & PARTNER GMBH?

Flexible and customizable LIMS software at an affordable price - [FP]-LIMS
Michael Kramer - Fink & Partner -[FP]-LIMS
Marleen Haack Fink & Partner - [FP]-LIMS

In an interview with Michael Kramer and Marleen Moerke, who have been working in sales at Fink & Partner GmbH for many years now, we will analyze together the sales department’s daily tasks and the upcoming standards in the laboratory industry.

Anna Freddi.: Mr. Kramer, you might like to start by telling us what your responsibilities are at Fink & Partner.

Michael Kramer: My daily routine at Fink & Partner GmbH consists of different and exciting tasks. My primary duties include general customer support and passing on and analyzing technical information about LIMS installation. The sales department is always available to customers: We are the framework between customers and support or development.

 

A.F.: Mrs. Moerke, you are a member of the internal sales team. What are your tasks?

Marleen Moerke: Like probably almost all employees at our company, I would describe my job and the tasks associated with it as “wide-ranging”. My job concerns organizational tasks as well as data maintenance. A larger part of my work consists of processing incoming inquiries and depending on the volume. I also forward these to my more experienced colleague Mr. Kramer.

Like our IT project manager, Ms. Baumann, I was previously “on the other side” as a CAQ software user and administrator. I know the feeling of “someone that just wants to sell me something” – instead of offering real solutions that can be implemented quickly and are not unnecessarily cost-intensive.

[FP]-LIMS Interview Sales

A.F.: Let us talk about the software in detail now – what makes it so unique for the customer?

M.M.: The answer to this question depends on the point of view: industry, type of use, and purpose of its use. Many customers appreciate the fact that they get the software with standardized interfaces at a reasonable price. Our smallest version, the [F.P.]-LIMS Light Edition, is used in most cases. Other customers, on the other hand, appreciate the modularity of the product and combine the large Professional Edition with, for example, test order and/or recipe management. Our customers’ requests combine the desire for automation, simplifying procedures, process reliability, and secure traceability of data. The software should also be structured in its operation and equipped with a comprehensibly navigable system.

[FP]-LIMS, previously [DIA]-Analysis Management, is a standard software for the laboratory that offers all this and is developed in such a way that it can be adapted at any time.

LIMS software

A.F.: Behind the scenes – how can a standard laboratory software be customized?

M.K.: With our LIMS solution, customers can plan their quality management and pursue quality goals in the long term. Fink & Partner GmbH offers numerous modules that can also be added later. This means that LIMS software can be introduced step by step and can still react flexibly to changing conditions later because we are aware that workflows in a laboratory shift quickly and adapt to the upcoming standards of Industry 4.0. 

Thanks to our know-how and many years of experience, we can connect different measuring devices (M2M communication) with our [FP]-LIMS, even if other device manufacturers produced them. In fact – no measurement device is too “exotic” for our software developers: our development team has been working with different interfaces for almost 30 years, and this enriches our expertise. 

Fink & Partner GmbH has everything on board: fast evaluation options, reports, control, and management of quality management processes. These are powerful features of our LIMS software solution.

Lab software [FP]-LIMS

A.F.: We are aware that, depending on your field of activity, you will deal with customers differently. Could you tell us what the goals of your respective contact person* are and how you react to them?

M.K.: Every customer from the laboratory environment has specific requirements. And my job is to discover and fulfill each of them. On the one hand, [FP]-LIMS has the advantage of being flexible and modular: Our software has been developed to adapt to customer needs. On the other hand, the amount of device interfaces offers our customers the possibility to connect different measuring devices and plan for the long term.

With new customers, my focus is always first on the devices or measurement instruments in the laboratory, which need to be connected to the LIMS software. It is also essential to understand how the laboratory technicians work and whether they prefer manual rather than automated data entry, for example. Besides, statistical analysis and traceability of laboratory results also play a significant role. Here, the customer can send us the data from his measuring device to check it according to the criteria of “measurement uncertainty”.

Fink & Partner - Interfaces - [FP]-LIMS

A.F.: 2020 is a difficult year for all industries due to Covid-19, but there are new opportunities and potential behind every problematic situation. How would you describe this from your point of view?

M.K.: From the point of view of our customers, it is a great advantage that we have quickly switched to web presentations via Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Skype. However, this was already part of our range of services before the pandemic. We know that laboratory technicians and managers have a full calendar, and online presentations and calls have made communication easier for years and will probably remain in focus.

M.M.: Looking outside the company, the Corona crisis has hit almost all industries hard. Nevertheless, we could still successfully implement many projects with existing customers in 2020 and have carried out new installations worldwide. We will indeed all be facing another challenging year in 2021. However, IT and quality are forward-looking and worthy of investment from the perspective of our customers. And with our high-performance LIMS, an experienced team of sales, development, and support staff, we can look positively into the future.

Fink & Partner - Quality management - QM improvement

A.F.: To sum up: What does a successful sales department need? 

M.M.: At Fink & Partner GmbH, we all see ourselves as one team, and we are united by the goal to provide every customer with a suitable solution. As the sales department at Fink & Partner GmbH, we support our customers during the purchase of licenses and continue to provide personal service to our customers. I think this is a crucial factor that distinguishes our sales team from others. 

M.K.: As my colleague, Mrs. Moerke, and my colleague Mrs. Baumann, our IT project manager, have already mentioned, the IT industry is future-oriented. Therefore, it is essential always to offer a LIMS that follows market trends and satisfies the actual needs of the end-user. [FP]-LIMS is flexible standard software and is one of the IoT technologies that quickly adapt to the laboratory environment’s coming standards. This includes high configuration, user-friendliness, as well as great independence. A successful IT sales team quickly learns and understands customer needs and requirements and always looks to the future.

Personally, for me, a quote from Charles Lazarus is incredibly inspiring: “The best ideas come to me when I imagine that I am my own customer”. And this is exactly how I start each day at work.

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Start a lab

Everything you need to know to start a lab

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Start a lab - Everything you need to know

Start a lab

To have a successful lab, you need a unique business idea. Too often, people try to copy what others are doing, which just doesn’t work in the lab. If you want to be successful, you have to develop something new and innovative. Setting up your own lab is a great way to do this – you have the freedom to pursue and implement your own ideas. So don’t be afraid to think outside the box – there’s no telling what kind of success you can achieve if you do.

Flexible and customizable LIMS software at an affordable price - [FP]-LIMS

Starting a lab: Important factors and considerations

How do you set up a lab? Creating a research lab from scratch can be daunting, but with careful planning, it can be a doable task. One of the challenges is the cost, as setting up a lab with the appropriate technology can quickly run into six figures. However, there are many ways to reduce this expense. For example, many scientific equipment manufacturers offer academic discounts, and some universities have shared lab facilities that can be rented at discounted rates.

Once you have secured funding for your lab, the next step is to determine its purpose and design. What type of research will be conducted in the lab? What equipment will be needed to support that research? Will the lab be used for teaching or training purposes? These are important questions to answer before you begin purchasing equipment or hiring staff. Items such as permits for start-up and the high-security requirements for the lab’s premises should also be considered.

Start a lab: Important requirements

There are many different types of laboratories, and the specific requirements for starting an independent laboratory depend on the focus or industry. For example, a laboratory in the medical field may require expensive and specialized equipment and sufficient space to house it. In contrast, a lab specializing in environmental testing may need to be located near an industrial area to access testing facilities. Before starting an independent laboratory, it is important to research the specific requirements and regulations for your industry.

  • Safety regulations
  • Occupational safety regulations
  • Legal framework conditions
  • Premises: if necessary, change of use or necessary conversion measures
  • Initial investment should not be underestimated, especially when working with chemicals!

Registration of the laboratory as a company

Before the laboratory starts its operation, there are many things to consider. As a rule, a trade must be registered. This can be done at the chamber of commerce or, depending on the country, at another authority. Tax registration with the tax office must also be carried out. The lab must have a business account, and it is important to choose the right insurancecompany. To get started, a business plan is essential. This document should outline the goals and objectives of the laboratory and how it will achieve those goals.

Setting up a medical laboratory requires detailed planning and can be costly. The most important factor is to ensure that the laboratory is properly set up and equipped to meet the specific requirements of the tests to be performed. In many cases, approval must be obtained from the appropriate regulatory agency before work can begin in a new laboratory.

Registration of the laboratory

Reasons for starting your own laboratory

The need for professional laboratory services is huge – and not just in the human medicine segment. Laboratories can provide many companies with quality assurance and testing that can help ensure products are safe and meet customer requirements. Laboratories can also be used for research and development purposes to create new products or improve existing ones. In addition, labs can be used for product manufacturing, quality control, and other support services. With your own lab, you have all the resources you need to run your business efficiently and effectively.

Business plan: How to start your own laboratory?

If you are planning to start a laboratory, it is important to prepare a business plan. The plan should include an overview of the lab, its services, and profitability plans. A well-written business plan will help secure funding from investors or financial institutions. It will also help the lab owner stay on track and ensure that the lab runs efficiently. The business plan should include information about the target market for the lab’s services as well as its competition. It should also outline the marketing and advertising strategy that will be used to attract customers.

Is there funding available to start a lab?

Even if the lab is relatively small, the initial investment can be substantial. In most cases, the founder will not be able to finance the entire project with equity. Therefore, additional sources of funding are required.

One option is a bank loan. This type of loan is particularly advantageous for larger projects, as it allows for a longer repayment period. Interest rates are also usually lower than those offered by credit card companies or other private lenders. However, not all banks are willing to finance labs, so it’s important to shop around for the best deal. Another option is crowdfunding. This involves asking a large number of people for donations via the Internet.

But funding is also a possibility. Aspiring lab operators are best off doing an individual grant check. For example, there are grants that the EU provides specifically for startups.

Start your own lab: Starting with the right equipment

Setting up your own LIMS laboratory - with the right equipment

Setting yourself up for the future right from the start is the art of founding a laboratory.  Digitization is on the rise in all areas of our lives. And now, at the latest, it has also reached the laboratory. What has long been underway in the industry with “Industry 4.0” is now about to be implemented in the laboratory. The processes in the classic laboratory, in which data is recorded manually, data is stored in inaccessible data tombs, and those external to the laboratory are supplied with files, calls, or even faxes, are coming to an end. The objective of this change to digitalization is “Lab 4.0”.

If you want to set yourself up right from the start as a lab owner, you should make sure that all systems and equipment are designed for digital collaboration, which starts with networking. All samples should have a direct link to digital data through machine-readable identification. This is possible via barcodes, RFID tags, or similar identification methods associated with the sample. The laboratory equipment must be networked so that analysis values can be retrieved automatically and without detours from a LIMS.

A laboratory information management system supports laboratory operations concerning the administrative and coordinative tasks of sample processing and sample management. But it also simplifies the acquisition and evaluation of determining measurement data/analysis data. A LIMS is, therefore, a solution that enables laboratories to organize their processes efficiently and clearly. Companies benefit in that the daily manual effort for classic processes is significantly reduced, and the management of data is made easier.

Conclusion: Think about tomorrow when founding a laboratory

When setting up a laboratory, it is important to think about the future. What will you use the lab for tomorrow? What experiments do you need to perform? What equipment will you need? By planning ahead, you can ensure that your lab is set up for success. You can also save time and money by planning ahead and considering factors such as choosing a flexible and cost-effective LIMS software early on.

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Why LIMS-Software is indispensable for quality management

Why LIMS-Software is indispensable for quality management

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Why LIMS-Software is indispensable for quality management

Why LIMS-Software is indispensable for quality management

Quality management (QM) is playing an increasingly important role for companies of all sizes and in all industries. Competition is getting tougher, customer demands higher and legal requirements stricter. An effective QM strategy is therefore crucial to a company’s success and competitiveness.

A key component of QM is data management. Companies need to capture, store, analyze and document a wide range of data to optimize their processes, minimize errors and meet compliance requirements. This is where LIMS software comes into play.

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Flexible and customizable LIMS software at an affordable price - [FP]-LIMS

What is a LIMS?

A LIMS is a laboratory information and management system, a software platform designed specifically for laboratories to automate and support sample management, data management, workflow management, and quality control.

A LIMS allows laboratories to manage and track data generated during the sample analysis process. It can help facilitate sample management and task assignment, document the performance of experiments and analyses, generate reports, and manage results.

LIMS systems are used in a variety of corporate environments, such as research and development, reclamation, and industrial production quality control.

LIMS software is especially valuable for QM. This is the case for several reasons:

How does a LIMS help increase efficiency in quality management?

One of the biggest benefits of LIMS software is increased efficiency. Manual data entry is time-consuming and error-prone, which can lead to delays and inaccuracies. LIMS software automates data processing, reducing the risk of human error. In addition, quality management staff can save time by accessing a central database instead of having to refer to multiple Excel spreadsheets or paper files.

LIMS software can also help improve collaboration between different departments and teams. Data can, through this central database, be easily shared between departments, and by standardizing processes, delays and errors can be avoided. This leads to a smoother process and higher quality results.

Increased efficiency through LIMS in quality management
Error reduction through LIMS in QM

Error reduction in quality management?

Another important benefit of LIMS is the automation of data and sample management, which leads to a reduction in human errors. When all processes are automated, human intervention is minimized, reducing the possibility of errors. For example, the LIMS can help ensure that samples are analyzed in the correct location and that the results of the analysis are forwarded to the correct person. This can prevent mix-ups of samples or results. Interfaces to measuring devices also allow data to be transferred directly to the database, making typing errors a thing of the past.

In addition, LIMS enables better monitoring of quality assurance measures and process flows. All actions in the laboratory are recorded and documented (audit trail) so that compliance with quality standards can be tracked. Errors can be detected and corrected more quickly before they lead to major problems.

Compliance

Quality management compliance is critical for companies to ensure the safety and quality of their products and services. Implementing LIMS software can provide significant benefits for companies to facilitate and improve compliance.

LIMS software in quality management helps improve data security and integrity. This is due to a secure and centralized database that stores all information about samples, tests and results. By using access rights and passwords, only authorized people can access this data, which increases data security. In addition, LIMS software can ensure the integrity of data through the use of digital signatures and audit trail functions, which ensure that all changes to the data are traceable.

Easier compliance with LIMS in QM

Scalability

Companies grow and change over time. Good LIMS software is able to adapt to changing requirements and grow with the company. It is possible to add new features, integrate additional users or expand the software to new business areas. This improves the scalability of the QM system and keeps the company agile and competitive.

Is a LIMS now indispensable in quality management or not?

In today’s world, an effective QM strategy is crucial for the success and competitiveness of a company. Data management plays an important role here, which can be optimized with LIMS software. LIMS software automates data acquisition, processing and documentation, reduces human error and ensures compliance. In addition, good LIMS software is scalable and can adapt to the changing needs of the business.

In order for the benefits of LIMS software listed in this article to really become a reality, the selection of a LIMS requires close scrutiny and coordination with the manufacturer, because a flexible and adaptable LIMS is a tremendous advantage in the dynamic world of Lab 4.0 and an indispensable tool in quality management for many industries.

We at Fink & Partner can offer you exactly that with our [FP]-LIMS, a flexible LIMS that adapts precisely to your work processes, can be expanded in the future and is based on 30 years of experience. Thanks to our modular structure, you only pay for what you absolutely need.

Please feel free to contact us and we will discuss your chances and our possibilities with you in a non-binding and free demo appointment.

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