Streamline Laboratory Operations with Sample Scheduler for OpenLab

Significance of the topic

Modern laboratories handle growing numbers of analytical requests across diverse instruments. Manual scheduling of samples leads to human errors, delays, and underutilized equipment. A centralized solution for routing, queuing, and monitoring analyses enhances throughput, traceability, and data integrity in regulated and research environments.

Objectives and Study Overview

This white paper introduces Agilent Sample Scheduler for OpenLab, a software extension designed to streamline sample management and workload distribution. The paper outlines its integration with OpenLab CDS, its role as a hub between laboratory information management systems (LIMS/SLIMS) and analytical instruments, and demonstrates deployment options from desktop to mobile dashboards.

Methodology

The solution uses a modular architecture comprising a central database, LIMS agent, multiple Scheduler agents, a webserver, and user interfaces. It leverages autofill triggers to prepopulate instrument methods and supports XML-based or SQL-based bidirectional communication with any LIMS. The system assigns samples to the appropriate instrument, checks license availability, and submits acquisition requests directly into OpenLab CDS.

Instrumentation

• OpenLab Server with content management and shared services
• OpenLab CDS client/server system (versions 2.7 and 2.8)
• Analytical Instrument Controllers (Scheduler Agent Service)
• Sample Scheduler database and orchestrator services
• Sample Scheduler desktop client and web client interfaces
• Integration agents for XML file handling and SQL queries
• SLIMS laboratory information management system integration module

Results and Discussion

Implementation of Sample Scheduler simplifies the user experience by consolidating instrument selection and sequence submission into one interface. Lab managers gain a real-time overview of instrument status and workloads through desktop and mobile dashboards. Integration with LIMS or SLIMS eliminates manual transcription, improving data quality and regulatory compliance. Custom instrument configurations are minimized through out-of-the-box drivers and XML schema.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Reduced setup time and human errors via automated scheduling and method autofills
• Improved traceability with bidirectional LIMS communication and electronic result submission
• Enhanced resource utilization and throughput by balancing workloads across instruments
• Flexible deployment on existing OpenLab infrastructures with minimal additional hardware

Future Trends and Potential Applications

As laboratories embrace digital transformation, integration with cloud platforms and AI-driven scheduling algorithms may further optimize instrument utilization. Expanded support for non-chromatographic techniques and wider LIMS compatibility will broaden applicability. Mobile and web clients will evolve to offer advanced analytics and predictive maintenance insights.

Conclusion

Agilent Sample Scheduler for OpenLab offers a unified, scalable solution for managing analytical workflows. By bridging LIMS and instruments, it automates routing, reduces errors, and enhances visibility. Laboratories can thus focus on results rather than logistics, driving higher productivity and compliance.

References

• Sample Scheduler for OpenLab Revision 2.7 – Installation and Configuration Guide, Agilent Technologies user manual, publication number D0014638 Rev. A, 2022
• Bidirectional LIMS and OpenLab CDS Integration with Agilent Sample Scheduler, Agilent Technologies technical overview, publication number 5994-3153EN, 2021