What exactly is a... LES?

In the course of the digitalization of a laboratory, terms are constantly being used that are not understandable at first glance. Especially in the field of software, abbreviations are often thrown around that are commonplace for an expert (or, of course, a specialist) - but not for laboratory technicians. LES is such a term, which we would like to take a closer look at today. LES and LES applications can already be found in many laboratories today, which demand high documentation standards from their staff.

LES: The Laboratory Execution System
A Laboratory Execution System (LES) is a software application that supports the documented execution of analyses, the systematic handling of preparations for experiments or the production of reagents in a laboratory. The LES guides the user through the individual work steps by means of notes or instructions. At the same time, the LES prompts the user to enter important data for the current work step either electronically or manually. This form of dialogue between software and user is intended to ensure that work processes become safer and at the same time the necessary documentation obligations are fulfilled.

LES in LIMS
We have already said that software developers have a penchant for abbreviations. Another abbreviation is LIMS, the Laboratory Information and Management System. This system is, so to speak, the basis in the digital laboratory - or to put it simply: LIMS is the "operating system" in the digital laboratory. LES, on the other hand, is a specialized application that supplements the functions of LIMS. LES is therefore - also in simple terms - an "add-on software" that complements the LIMS operating system.

What are your experiences with LIMS and LES in your daily laboratory work? Write to us - we look forward to your feedback!