Axial Biotech answers the laboratory chicken vs. egg question “What comes first, the laboratory or the tracking system?”
Although the system IT specialist was planning to do the actual configuration, the lab manager and lab designer joined him for training. Armed with the understanding of what the system could do, the team began developing and layout out their system. Since the lab was not yet completed, this year-long process allowed for a methodical approach that expanded the basic system each time a new piece of equipment was integrated. As they finalized the process of collecting samples and sending them through the lab, the system evolved to include those capabilities. When they were ready to create a final report — Axial’s product — the UNIConnect team assisted in the design and production.
This implementation approach has paid great dividends to Axial. At a CLIA inspection in September that was a preset milestone for additional funding, they passed with impressive results. The auditor was so impressed with the customized system that resulted from Axial’s collaboration with UNIConnect that he requested UNIFlow for his own lab.
In January 2009, Axial went through a CAP inspection. Two auditors spent three days scrutinizing the lab, the system, the processes and the plans. Each time the inspectors asked how something was being tracked and controlled, Axial was able to show evidence of it in their system. The result of the inspection was zero deficiencies.
We congratulate the Axial team on their diligence and preparation for the inspection. There were many factors beyond the UNIFlow system that contributed to this positive outcome, but it’s gratifying to see that this technology was a key part of the Axial success.
The model of bringing the LIMS up at the same time as the lab certainly paid off for Axial. The next time you hear someone say they don’t need a system until after the lab is complete, you might want to tell them about Axial Biotech’s impressive success.