Agilent Dissolution Workflow Manager for OpenLab Workstation Plus Software Site Preparation Checklist

Importance of the Topic

Proper site preparation is a critical first step in deploying laboratory software and instruments reliably and efficiently. By ensuring that hardware, operating systems, network configurations, and permissions meet required specifications, laboratories can minimize installation delays, reduce system downtime, and accelerate return on investment. This structured approach benefits organizations by promoting consistency, regulatory compliance, and long-term stability of analytical workflows.

Objectives and Overview

The checklist is designed to guide laboratories through the pre-installation requirements for Agilent Dissolution Workflow Manager running on OpenLab Workstation Plus. It outlines customer responsibilities, software and hardware specifications, network and security prerequisites, and recommended site configurations. The document’s purpose is to streamline installation services, confirm readiness, and avoid revisions or rescheduling due to unmet conditions.

Methodology and Used Instrumentation

Installation readiness combines a review of software prerequisites, hardware capabilities, and network setups. Key elements include:

• Operating system: Windows 10 or Windows 11 (Enterprise or Professional, 64-bit, version 21H2 or later)
• .NET Framework: versions 3.5.x (enabled) and 4.8 or higher
• .NET Core: version 6.x or higher
• Supported web browsers: Google Chrome 98+ or Microsoft Edge
• Antivirus: Symantec Endpoint Protection, Trend Micro, Microsoft Security Essentials, or McAfee
• User accounts: domain user with local administrator privileges for setup and configuration
• Hardware: Intel i5/i7/Xeon E3 (3.0 GHz+, 4 cores), 16 GB RAM (4 GB reserved for OS), 500 GB–1 TB SATA HDD or SSD, USB 2.0 port, RS-232 serial ports (via USB-Serial adapters), dual LAN ports (1 Gb for instrument control, separate intranet connection)
• OpenLab Workstation Plus version 2.8 and Update 5 must be installed prior to adding the Dissolution Workflow Manager

Key Findings and Discussion

Adherence to these specifications ensures a smooth installation process and reliable long-term operation. Critical points include:

• Preinstallation of Windows updates, hotfixes, and patches avoids compatibility conflicts during software deployment.
• Verifying administrative privileges and network accessibility prevents service interruptions and installation rollbacks.
• Reserving dedicated network interfaces for instrument traffic isolates critical data flows and enhances security.
• Multiple backup solutions and proper licensing information availability safeguard against data loss and deployment delays.

Benefits and Practical Applications

By following the checklist, laboratories gain:

• Reduced lead times for commissioning analytical software.
• Lower risk of configuration errors and installation failures.
• Improved regulatory compliance through documented site readiness.
• Enhanced system performance and maintainability.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Laboratories are moving towards more automated and remotely monitored installations. Future developments may include:

• Cloud-based configuration management to streamline updates and backups.
• Integration with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) for unified data workflows.
• Enhanced remote diagnostics and self-service readiness checks before on-site visits.

Conclusion

Systematic site preparation is essential for successful deployment of Agilent Dissolution Workflow Manager and OpenLab Workstation Plus. By rigorously meeting software, hardware, network, and user-permission requirements, organizations can achieve reliable operation, faster return on investment, and greater confidence in their analytical processes.

References

Agilent Technologies. Software Site Preparation Checklist for Dissolution Workflow Manager and OpenLab Workstation Plus, Document No. D0022257, Revision A.00, 2025.