Efficiency is key when it comes to laboratory operations. Whether they are new businesses or well-established organizations, laboratories work in a complex environment with specific needs. But in the midst of this intricacy, their assets are a crucial element. This equipment runs the lab's daily operations. But how do laboratories ensure that these resources continue to be useful, economical, and compatible with their changing needs? Understanding the value of laboratory asset acquisition and the function of a thorough lab asset management plan can determine the solution.
Understanding a lab's "operational profile" is crucial before starting the asset acquisition process. The operational profile, which comprises routine analyses, volumes, and sample procedures, is a distinctive pattern or feature of the laboratory’s operations. A laboratory workflow analysis is the only way to properly determine a lab’s needs. This study identifies the assets that are required as well as the most effective ways to place them in the lab.
Larger manufacturing, biotech, and pharmaceutical firms have long understood the need for effective asset management. These businesses guarantee the proper care of their assets by outsourcing to qualified asset managers. Medium-sized and smaller labs can gain the same advantages by utilizing affordable services that are tailored to each stage of a lab’s particular lifecycle.
The comprehensive lab asset management plan is the guiding principle behind this strategy. This plan acts as the guideline for every stage of the lifecycle of lab assets, including acquisition, upkeep, relocation, and even divestiture. But what actually forms the core of this approach?
Outfitting a lab entails acquiring resources that support the lab's scientific purpose. It is essential to find dependable, affordable instruments maintained by either the manufacturer or a certified service provider, whether for a new lab or an old one.
A service plan ensures that assets are maintained to minimize downtime based on the operational profile of the lab. Full laboratory contract maintenance or other variable degrees of service can fall under this.
A laboratory may need extra room as it develops and grows. A strong asset management strategy guarantees minimal disturbance throughout this change, as well as ensuring a smooth transition from site to site during a laboratory relocation.
An asset management company can help with the sale, reuse, or disposal of equipment when it becomes unnecessary.
Purchasing refurbished equipment can be an ideal option when choosing an asset. Reconditioned instruments, when inspected and refurbished by a reliable source like Overbrook, can be a game-changer, especially for labs wishing to effectively use resources or increase capacity.
More than just acquiring the appropriate assets is needed to maintain a lab's operating effectiveness. This is demonstrated through Overbrook's managed maintenance program. The process starts with a thorough laboratory asset management assessment that identifies important workflows and indicates which instruments need the greatest care. A cost-effective and productive operational environment is ensured by this technique that is specifically developed.
An effective laboratory operation is built on the foundation of asset acquisition and a comprehensive approach to lab asset management. A systematic approach to assets can make all the difference in ensuring laboratory success, as Boston, Massachusetts-based Overbrook demonstrates with its broad variety of lifecycle services.