release notes

December 2024 | Version 1.5 X-MAS

In this festive season, the new version delivers a special gift for more efficient and flexible laboratory processes. With highlights such as the Flexible Execution Mode for sample investigations, Central Views for workflow standardization, optimized Batch Analysis, and rapid sample storage using Barcode Scanning, everyday lab operations are now significantly more productive and structured. A perfect way to close out the year with many improvements paving the way for the future.

 

The new features:

Flexible Execution Mode

The new Flexible Execution Mode allows sample investigations in research and development environments to be handled with greater flexibility. Instead of following a rigid workflow, users can start with a less defined plan and adjust it dynamically during the investigation. This provides room to react to new findings as they emerge.

 

Before starting an investigation

  • Users can choose between the Standard Mode and the Flexible Execution Mode.

    During the Flexible Execution

    • Parameters and methods can be added or removed at any time.
    • A clear visual marker in the results input differentiates this mode from standard investigations.

    Sample workflow

    • Once results are entered, the sample can either be forwarded for review or directly finalized.
    • Review and approval are performed by independent users in line with the 4-eyes principle.

    New statuses in the workflow

    • In Review: After results entry is completed.
    • Pending Approval: After the review process.
    • Completed: After the final approval.

    Central Views

    The introduction of Central Views enables new opportunities for standardizing workflows. Administrators can define preconfigured views that are rolled out to specific user roles, ensuring they are optimally tailored to respective work processes.

    Functions for administrators

    • Create, adjust, and roll out central views.
    • View assignments of central views to specific user roles.

    Functions for users

    • Central views are available in addition to personally saved views.
    • A clear visual indicator distinguishes central views from personal ones.

       

      Bug fixes and improvements:

      Batch analysis – Apply Values to All Remaining Samples

      • Batch analysis has been enhanced with a new function that simplifies the input of consistent parameters across samples. This allows for more efficient processing of batch samples and minimizes the risk of data entry errors.

      Rapid Sample Storage with Barcode Scanning

      • The new Barcode Scanning feature simplifies and accelerates sample storage. Pre-registered samples can now be quickly assigned to storage locations by scanning their barcodes. This solution streamlines the storage process, especially when handling large quantities of samples, and reduces manual effort.

      Further improvements

      • In addition to the new features mentioned, various optimizations and bug fixes have been implemented to further enhance system stability and usability.

       

      November 2024 | Version 1.4.1

      With this minor release, users benefit not only from the expanded device infrastructure and the integration of Sartorius scales but also from the ability to upload documents as custom fields. Additionally, the new copy function for dataset titles enhances convenience during work.

      The new features:

      Expanded Device Infrastructure: Integration of Sartorius Scales

      • The expansion of the device infrastructure now enables reliable and secure operation of additional local devices through the cloud system.
      • Once communication between the message broker, device adapter, and device has been established, the corresponding laboratory device can be created and connected in SAMPLES.
      • Connected devices are available in the device list and, after enabling specific device functionalities, can be assigned to a method and interacted with accordingly.
      • The following three scales from Sartorius have been integrated: Entris II Essential Line Precision Balance, Entris II Advanced Line Analytical Balance, Cubis II Microbalance.

         

        Expanded Custom Fields: File Upload

        • SAMPLES offers extensive use of custom fields for tailored applications. File uploads are now also supported within these fields.
        • Documents can be uploaded as custom fields to devices, consumables, tasks, and more, allowing relevant information to be stored directly at the source and retrieved as needed.

        • For example, this allows SOPs to be attached to devices and methods, safety data sheets to be attached to consumables and devices, as well as other original documents to be stored.

           

          Bug fixes and improvements:

          Copy Function for Dataset Titles

          • In the title line of a dataset, such as for samples or tasks, “copy” icons have been integrated.

          • Clicking the icon now allows the name to be easily copied for further use.

          August 2024 | Version 1.4

          This update introduces new features, including the ability to input multi-line texts, use web links, and predefine technical parameters during method editing. With these enhancements, users can now add additional information that is crucial for planning an investigation or may arise during its execution. Furthermore, label printing is now directly accessible from the sample list, simplifying the process of printing and labeling large quantities of samples in everyday laboratory operations.

          The new features:

          Multiline texts

          • New text block parameters allow for the input of multi-line texts, enabling the documentation of longer comments or more comprehensive overall assessments in the result entry.

          • This feature is now available both in routine processes as well as for free parameters and custom fields.

           

          Web links to external documents

          • With this version, it is now possible to link to external documents on the World Wide Web. This allows for direct references to, for example, files with large data sets or constantly updated information, such as ISO documents, SOPs for devices, or safety data sheets for consumables.

          • These web links are available to users both in routine processes as well as for free parameters and custom fields.

           

          Predefinition of technical device parameters

          • Technical parameters of devices can now be predefined during method editing.
          • These predefined technical parameters will be preset during the investigation but can be adjusted if necessary.
          • This feature helps users by allowing them to focus on the actual investigation, keeping the result entry free from technical details.

           

          Label printing from the sample list

          • Label printing for multiple samples is now possible directly from the sample list.
          • This feature ensures a convenient and faster way to label large quantities of samples.

           

          Bug fixes and improvements:

           

          • Improvements and minor bug fixes have been made to the text editor for work instructions, the main menu, method configuration, and the Yes/No parameter.

          June 2024 | Version 1.3

          This update introduces important new features, such as formattable work instructions, the use of FLUICS label printers, and enhanced interaction with devices. Users particularly benefit from these innovations by being able to map even more complex workflows with devices, as well as integrate external content and media into formattable work instructions. This allows for optimal customization to meet individual needs. (June 2024)

          The new features:

          Customizable Work Instructions

          • Work instructions can now be formatted and enhanced with media such as images, videos, or content from other websites. This allows for optimal structuring and supports customization to meet user-specific needs in preparation.
          • The following options are available: Font size, font color, font style (bold, italic, underline); bulleted and numbered lists; embedded images; Links to websites; Links to videos (e.g. YouTube)

           

          Use of FLUICS label printers

          • FLUICS Label printers can now be easily integrated into the device management system
          • Sample labels for aliquots can be printed in series according to the required quantity.

           

          Enhanced Device Interactions

          • For devices connected via SiLA 2 or OPC UA LADS, extended options are now available.
          • If increased clarity is desired, necessary device functions can be specifically configured.
          • There is also the possibility to individually name device functions.
          • Multiple configurations are available for interacting with the devices: values can be read from or written to devices. Additionally, it is possible to invoke actions within devices, where both incoming and outgoing values can be configured. As a result, a variety of complex workflows with devices can be implemented. Please contact us for specific connection requests.

           

          Bug fixes and improvements:

           

          • Individual parameters can now be hidden in the examination reports.
          • In selection fields (e.g., sample type), where there is only one option available, it is now automatically preselected.

          April 2024 | Version 1.2

          This update introduces the new features of consumables, examination reports and the ability to connect devices and data analysis to complement and complete the digital examination process with important aspects. In addition, the new main menu and the new individual results input improve user-friendly operation.

          The new features:

          Consumables

          • Consumables can be created and configured in the laboratory process.
          • An overview of the consumables and their currently available remaining quantities can be viewed centrally at any time in the consumables list. It is also possible to select the currently available consumables during the examination process.
          • The traceability of consumables is guaranteed (e.g. for batch products).

           

          Investigation report

          • An inspection report (PDF) can be generated in an order.
          • This contains all relevant information about an investigation (including file attachments, images, etc.).

           

          Connection of devices

          • For devices connected via SiLA 2 or OPC UA LADS, extended options are now available.
          • Please contact us for specific connection requests.

           

          External data analysis

          • Integration of the evaluation and analysis of survey data collected using Jupyter Lab.
          • If you have specific requests for data analysis, please contact us.

           

          Authentication

          • Authentication takes place via the secure OAuth procedure.

           

          Bug fixes and improvements:

          Individually customise

          • Saving favorites in the main menu enables quick access to frequently used menu items.
          • Users can save several individual filters to easily access frequently used lists via the main menu.
          • Catalogs can be intuitively created and edited directly in the main menu.

          Work clearly

          • Individual examination results can now be entered more intuitively and conveniently.
          • Users can safely perform assisted examinations with step-by-step instructions.
          • The list of necessary consumables supports the preparation and execution of the examination.

          Always up to date

          • If other users make changes or updates that relate to the currently open list, this is actively indicated by a message in the window.

          August 2023 | Version 1.1

          This update introduces the new features Timeline, Versioning, Audit Trail and Batch Analysis to track changes clearly. There are also optimisations in the menu, profile and personal settings to improve the usability.

          The new features:

          Timeline

          • With the help of the interactive timeline, changes can now be visually traced very quickly.

           

          Versioning (included in the Upgrade)

          • Methods can now be saved as a new version after changes.
          • Goals always refer to a specific version of a method.
          • The version of a method that was used is documented for each analysis.

           

          Audit trail (included in the Upgrade)

          • A detailed, chronological log of all changes can now be displayed in the sidebar.

           

          Batch analysis (included in the Upgrade)

          • This function allows the simultaneous analysis of several samples in one run.
          • For a Batch Analysis, sample trays (e.g. microtitre plates) of any size can be configured and the samples can be placed on them.
          • Values can be copied or pasted into sample trays for easy further processing in Excel.

           

          HL7 FHIR

           

          Bug fixes and improvements:

          Simply set up

          • Users can now change their password and maintain a profile picture.
          • Users have the option to stay logged in on a device at all times.

          Individually customise

          • In the table view, a filter setting can be saved as a “custom view” and used at any time.
          • User-defined fields have been integrated into the properties tab and can be used flexibly through “Manage form”.

          Effectively organise

          • In the notifications, the function “Mark all as read” now ensures a maximum overview.
          • For orders, a file such as a report or analysis certificate can be uploaded as additional information.

          Flexibly use

          • Numerous optimisations in the mobile area improve the usability, especially on smaller devices such as smartphones and tablets.

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