Become a Data Citizen

“Digital transformation is not just about buying or upgrading technology, but also about creating a digital mindset”.

Strategic workforce planning (SWP) is therefore required to unleash organisational potential. The SWP concept presented by Andreas Steinle from Roche showed how important it is to align HR strategies and organisational goals and prepare for the future by adapting the work culture, adapting to change, and remaining attractive to existing and new talent.

This is the moment when Andreas challenged the audience to think about implementing a new training policy, because all employees of the organisation need to be trained not only in data integrity, but also in the importance of FAIR data, so that they become data citizens.

Digital Mindset Shift for successful DX journey

When attending the PLA® conferences, there are numerous opportunities to get in touch with solution providers. In the exhibition hall, networking sessions and sponsored workshops, discussions focused on products and systems that meet a need.

>While technology is an enabler of digital transformation, it is not the solution. A business transformation solution requires multiple skilled teams, a change management strategy and emphasises the need for employee training and cultural change.

However, to support the digital mindset shift, intuitive solutions with a simple user interface and a limited number of clicks to perform a procedure were mentioned several times to laboratory informatics providers.

Not everyone is willing to switch if they are already struggling with the simple login process, have forgotten their password and can be a potential risk factor in terms of data integrity and security for the organisation. On the other hand, companies cannot remain idle when they are competing for new applicants who bring new necessary skills and actively demand digitalised processes through modern technologies.

Quality Culture, part of Corporate Core Beliefs

Quality Culture does not come with an “On” button that magically transforms an organisation.  Thanks  to the presentations delivered by Bob McDowall and Marie Jorna, Quality Director, Data Integrity & Digitalization Center of Excellence at MSD Animal Health, it seemed obvious to everyone why a quality culture is important in an organisation.

Whilst Bob started straight away by saying that for him a culture of quality is the condicio sine qua non for data integrity. He makes it clear that it is the job of management with leadership responsibility to create a quality culture where employees understand that data integrity is a core value of the organisation and where employees are encouraged to identify and promptly report data integrity issues.

The Iceberg of Ignorance

The iceberg of ignorance has made it very clear that ultimately management needs to be more aware of how work is being done and what the problems are, e.g. through Gemba walks.

Every employee should have data integrity objectives in their job description

As an example, among other warnings, he cited the Stason and Tender Corp FDA warnings letters from July 2020, which stated: “Management needs knowledge of computer systems” – key for digitalisation projects!

“The Iceberg of Ignorance”, a study popularly attributed to consultant Sidney Yoshida concludes:  “Only 4% of an organization’s front-line problems are known by top management, 9% are known by middle management, 74% by supervisors and 100% by employees…”

Although the Yoshida study involved numerous mid-sized organizations, the basic findings tend to be the same in organizations of any size.

Here some extra reading from 2017 MHRA blog

• Too much pressure: a behavioural approach to Data Integrity (Part 1) – MHRA Inspectorate (blog.gov.uk)
• Too much pressure: a behavioural approach to Data Integrity (Part 2) – MHRA Inspectorate (blog.gov.uk)

Quality Culture Definition

Complementing Bob in this session dedicated to quality culture, Marie Jorna from MSD Animal Health brought the perspective of quality officers working on educational initiatives across all facilities in her organisation.

She proposed a definition for quality culture: “habits, norms, values and standards of organisational behaviour that influence the quality of products”. However, from her experience, Marie also pointed out that building a common culture involves all cultures and subcultures, proposing customised training, creating a community of practise, spreading knowledge about the regulations, encouraging people to speak out.

The aim is to instil a sense of quality culture in everyone so that they become digital, gain efficiency and productivity while fully complying with regulations.

I am personally delighted that the human aspect of DX projects was so well received at PLA2024Europe.

We are grateful to all our #PLA2024Europe keynote speakers, presenters and panellists for being so open about their digital transformation experiences, challenges, benefits, reflections and conclusions.

Last but not least, this edition was also very special because we were able to welcome so many women on stage and in the audience.

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Most importantly, these workshops are an opportunity to gain an incredible overview of what the laboratory informatics industry has to offer today. Many PLA® conference attendees have highlighted the benefits of the various workshops as a great alternative to the often overly commercialised one-to-one demonstrations.

It has been our experience that successful organisations ensure that all relevant departments are represented so that they can benefit from the various sessions and discuss their issues live.

Workshops content at a glance (6/6)

Tuesday 12 March 2024  | 11:30 – 12:30 | Premium Workshop in Parallel Session

During this presentation, Ms Tamara McKenna will explore how laboratory digital transformation can help scientists overcome the challenges and barriers that hinder their innovation and growth potential. She will also provide examples and share best practices of how digital transformation – and the implementation of a LIMS can enable organisations not only to achieve greater efficiency and productivity but make an impact in their fields. Read more …

Tuesday 12 March 2024  | 11:30 – 12:30 | Premium Workshop in Parallel Session

Whether you need to capture a measurement, enter additional data and perform calculation replacing an Excel spreadsheet or any paper document remaining in the laboratory, we have the solution for you. With our web and mobile application Dilab – Digital laboratory you can turn your data collection forms, spreadsheets and logbooks into electronic forms, that you can fill-in through any browser and approve with electronic signature. Through our approach, the original layout of your documents is retained, simplifying the adoption of digital forms by analysts. Read more …

Tuesday 12 March 2024  | 15:45 – 16:45 | Gold Workshop in Parallel Session

Science is complex and scientists need digital solutions that satisfy their specialized and evolving requirements with simplicity and ease, thus reducing the need for IT professionals to support them in their daily tasks.
During this session Mr. Gabriele Magaró will explore how the Sapio Sciences Lab Informatics Platform inherently enables scientists to build their own workflows and processes, collaborate effectively with their peers inside and outside their organisation, and have all the data at their fingertips. Read more …

Tuesday 12 March 2024  | 15:45 – 16:45 | Gold Workshop in Parallel Session

The introduction of LIMS software is a critical process for the digitisation of every laboratory. Human factor, technology and project governance are just some of the challenges that Lab professionals face for successful implementation.
In this context, the synergy between laboratory and technology partner is the key factor for a seamless transition to a paperless environment.
Eusoft and Zeta Farmaceutici Group talk about best practices to create the perfect chemistry in a path of digitalization of the Lab and present the real case of a LIMS SaaS (Software as a Service) implementation in the cloud for a pharmaceutical company. Read more …

Tuesday 12 March 2024  | 16:50 – 17:50| Gold Workshop in Parallel Session

Join us for a dynamic workshop where we unveil OpenLab 2.8, a cutting-edge solution poised to transform laboratory operations. In the first part, discover how we are addressing our customers needs with new features that come with OpenLab 2.8.Afterwards, we’ll delve into the world of chromatography automation, exploring techniques to streamline workflows and optimize results. Don’t miss this opportunity to harness the power of innovation in your lab processes. Let’s build a connection that truly matters. Read more …

Tuesday 12 March 2024  | 16:50 – 17:50| Gold Workshop in Parallel Session

As laboratories evolve, so do their demands for efficiency, agility, and informed decision making. Join our workshop to discover how embracing on-demand cloud technology is pivotal in achieving these goals. In our interactive session, you’ll gain insights into the indispensable role of cloud computing in shaping the lab of tomorrow. Explore how LabVantage solutions with cloud capabilities empower you with AI-driven search, analysis, and automation. Uncover real-world case studies showcasing the immediate and longterm benefits of leveraging cloud computing in laboratory workflows. Read more …

Deep Dive Workshops – a Training opportunity  (2/2)

Wednesday 13 March 2024  | 13:30 – 16:30|  Parallel Training Session

There is no point implementing any computerised system without delivering substantial business benefits.  As a corollary, automating the current analytical process is bad idea as it is likely to be slow and inefficient and automation results in a slow, inefficient and expensive semi-automated process.

Process understanding is a critical but often overlooked component of laboratory automation and digitalisation.  It is unlikely that current business processes in a laboratory can be automated effectively if computerised systems are used in hybrid mode (signed paper printouts of electronic records), paper records are used and manual input to one or more spreadsheets. Read more …

Wednesday 13 March 2024  | 13:30 – 16:30|  Parallel Training Session

This deep dive workshop aims for preparing you for the application of laboratory digitisation on a large scale through the use of data and communication standards.
As you go through the session, you will understand the role of data and communication standards in facilitating this process.
The session will begin with an overview of SiLA and AnIML standards. We will then explore the use of repeatable patterns to apply laboratory digitisation at scale and conclude with a live session using real instruments. Read more …

DOWNLOAD THE PLA2024EUROPE_PROGRAM

Discover all the discussions we have prepared for you at the Plenary !

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At the PLA® conference, we always endeavour to bring real-life examples to the stage, presented by their own project leader.

This year’s contribution by Mrs Silvia Primon, manager of Quality Control at the Zeta Farmaceutici Group, is something very special for us. She is keen to share her experiences, and, above all, the lessons learnt while introducing the digital transformation journey and strategy at Zeta.
As a leader, Mrs Primon has always been passionate about soft skills and true believer of the driving force that can impulse a team when used correctly.

Soft skills play a critical role in taking a team to the next level by fostering effective communication, collaboration, and overall team dynamics. Since the early stages of the New LIMS project, it has been crucial to utilise her leadership skills in this direction. As the title of her presentation suggests. Blue Sky Project: Soft skills to implement a lab software that “kills”

Blue Sky Project: Soft skills to implement a lab software that “kills”

Building the team’s confidence in a vision for the future and gaining their commitment to realising that vision, has empowered the team to proactively overcome any contretemps along the way. Comments Ms Primon to our event director.

When it comes to implementing software, where every stumbling block is an excuse to delay the project, lose confidence in the project and question the change, this refreshing true story will shed light on a brighter future to achieve fully paperless processes.

Our #PLA2024Europe program has been carefully crafted to discuss the most pressing challenges and exciting opportunities in the digital lab space. From insightful keynote addresses from industry leaders to interactive panel discussions, hands-on workshops from experts and thought-provoking presentations, the conference promises an immersive experience that transcends traditional boundaries.

As we navigate this digital landscape together, we encourage you to actively engage, ask questions and collaborate with fellow participants.

The Paperless Lab Academy® is not just a conference, but a dynamic platform for sharing knowledge, networking, and fostering the evolution of labs around the world.

Secure your free seat today!

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Our conference theme this year, “How to develop a digital mindset and embrace your digital ecosystem”, reflects our commitment to exploring the latest advances, sharing best practises and fostering a community of forward-thinking professionals.

Our #PLA2024Europe program has been carefully crafted to discuss the most pressing challenges and exciting opportunities in the digital lab space. From insightful keynote addresses from industry leaders to interactive panel discussions, hands-on workshops from experts and thought-provoking presentations, the conference promises an immersive experience that transcends traditional boundaries.

As we navigate this digital landscape together, we encourage you to actively engage, ask questions and collaborate with fellow participants. The Paperless Lab Academy® is not just a conference, but a dynamic platform for sharing knowledge, networking and fostering the evolution of labs around the world.

How to develop a digital mindset within the organisation

An opening focused session on “Developing a digital mindset within the organisation”. 3 keynote presentations, followed by a panel discussion, from Roche Diagnostics, GSK and Zeta Farmaceutici Group will light the discussion on the human factor of ,
3 realities of the pharma industry on its digital transformation journey, its own strategy, its own team and knowledge, its own pace.

• “Strategic Workforce Planning as a success factor for the digital future” by Andreas Steinle, Digital Integration Lead @ Roche Diagnostics
• “Blue Sky Project: Soft skillsto implement a lab software that kills” by Silvia Primon, Quality Control Manager @ Zeta Farmaceutici Group
• “Embracing the Digital Shift: Nurturing a culture of innovation and collaboration in lab transformation” by Domenico Palumbieri, Digital Operations Leader @ GSK

New Digital Experiences

Multiples examples from industry leaders about how they have created new digital experiences.
Every digital lab projects aim for improvements within the organisation. Every single presentation will touch a specific topic from which the audience will be able to discuss further. Such as how to increase efficiency through optimised tasks planning, how to leverage business decision with insightful information, how to develop a data-driven mindset through a decidated tool, how to harmonise and standardise processes,  how to balance GMP, non-GMP tech devlopment, how to apporach lowcode- no code software platfrom …

How to Live and Continuously Grow a Quality Culture of an Organisation

Another dedicated focused session about “ Living a Quality Culture”. 3 experts, 3 different backgrounds, experiences, roles and projects in hands will take us through their journey in driving quality culture within organisations.
Because Quality culture does not come with an “On” button that magically transforms an organisation.  Changing quality culture is the most difficult part of any data integrity program as it requires the whole organisation from the Board Room to the lab bench to have the same culture and ethos that enables individuals to admit their mistakes without fear of retribution.  Through this session, we will explore how data integrity and quality initiatives can be enhanced within an organisation.  To illustrate some quality culture problems, we will use examples from FDA 483 observations, warning letters and the daily challenge in QC.  The aim of these presentations is to generate attendee questions for the discussion session that follows.

Deep dive Workshops: Process Review & Connectivity and Data Management at scale

2 deep dive Workshops dedicated focused session include hands-on opportunities and possibilities to really discuss during 3 hours about the WHY and the HOW of their corresponding theme. Discover more here

Sponsored workshops

Sponsored workshops are very much appreciated by our fellow PLA® audience. It brings the opportunity to grasp the latest of lab informatics solutions available in the market, interact with their subject matter experts .

>>>> See full program

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The digitalisation of laboratory processes is not without its challenges. Laboratories generate huge amounts of data that need to be managed, analysed and securely stored. In addition, laboratory processes require complex workflows, compliance with strict regulations and interdisciplinary collaboration between scientists, engineers and data analysts.

The PLA2024Europe program proposes to tackle these challenges, which require more than just the implementation of digital tools; it requires a holistic approach where ecosystem thinking comes into play.

The PLA2024Europe includes 2 separate deep dive workshop sessions this March in Milan

The 11th edition of the PLA2024Europe programme includes two in-depth workshops.

These sessions offer the opportunity to better understand the “how” and “why” of things that could be done differently.

Deep dive Workshop: Instrument Connectivity and Data Management at Scale using Standards

This deep dive workshop aims for preparing you for the application of laboratory digitisation on a large scale through the use of data and communication standards.

You will learn about:

1. How the application of scalable patterns can accelerate your digitisation efforts. This includes instrument connectivity and data management using the SiLA and AnIML standards.
2. How to collect data from instrument PCs in an analytical or biological laboratory and store it in a secure central location.
3. How data can be integrated into leading systems such as LIMS and ELN to reduce manual transcription.
4. How to apply the FAIR principles to your data to maximise its value.

As you go through these points, you will understand the role of data and communication standards in facilitating this process.

The session will begin with an overview of SiLA and AnIML standards. We will then explore the use of repeatable patterns to apply laboratory digitisation at scale and conclude with a live session using real instruments

Deep Dive Workshop: Effective Lab Digitalisation Requires Process Understanding

Reengineering towards Quality, Integrity, and Compliance

Session sponsored by Mettler Toledo

There is no point in introducing a computerised system if it does not bring significant business benefits. Consequently, it is not a good idea to automate the current analysis process as it could probably be improved in terms of speed, efficiency and therefore productivity and quality.

Furthermore, it is unlikely that the current business processes in a laboratory can be effectively automated if computerised systems are used in hybrid mode (signed paper printouts of electronic records), paper records are transcribed, and manual entries are made in one or more spreadsheets.

Understanding your processes is a crucial but often overlooked component of laboratory automation and digitalisation

The session will present a methodology that can be used to map a process in an analytical laboratory. Examples of existing or as-is processes and how to capture the associated information required for a redesign will then be shown and critically evaluated.

When redesigning, the following three principles must be observed:

1. Data Capture at the Point of Origin: How to eliminate a writing a record on paper but a direct data entry into a computer system.

2. Data Transcription: Once data are electronic, they should remain electronic. Printing and retyping to another computer system should be banished from any standard operating procedure.

3. Data Life Cycle: Know Where the Data Go. Easy and quick retrieval at any time; this may require naming conventions for locations, data files etc.

Implicit in these principles is that quality, integrity and compliance with quality standards and regulations are designed into the process.

In summary, the deep dive workshops are a fundamental element of the PLA2024Europe program.

With the in-depth approach offered by the workshops, participants are supported in facing new challenges in the field of laboratory digitalisation, implementing new strategies for digital transformation and generally improving the digital mindset in the laboratory.

We look forward to seeing you at PLA2024Europe!

<<<<VIEW HERE THE FULL PROGRAM >>> 

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Discussions at the 11th edition of the Paperless Lab Academy® Conference Europe

Published in EINpresswire 

The PLA® Conference is pleased to announce its 11th European edition, which will take place on 12 and 13 March 2024 in the city of Milan, Italy, at the Hotel Meliá Milano.

The conference is the place to be for anyone thinking of implementing, consolidating, integrating, simplifying digital processes in their labs, and improving data-driven decisions. Data, Processes, People, Technology, and Compliance are the backbone of the program of each edition.

A two-day event that includes:

– Plenary talks and panel discussions

from industry leaders who share their visions and use cases, explain their strategies for tackling a specific project and share their lessons learnt along the way.

– Product deep dive workshops

where our sponsors present their latest solutions and their subject matter experts share their experience and knowledge on specific topics.

– Networking in the Exhibition Hall

a true showcase with high-quality networking opportunities to gather in-depth information with colleagues, speakers, and vendors.

– Training courses

to deepen knowledge on specific topics.

A unique opportunity that is only possible with the support of the PLA® partners. More than 60 solution and service providers sponsoring all editions around the globe.

The project was launched in Europe in 2012 with the aim of creating a platform for discussion that ensures a collaborative atmosphere between suppliers and visitors. The PLA conference program is intended for managers and executives from R&D, QC, OpEx, IT and QA departments in the bio/pharma, cosmetics, biotechnology, service labs, chemicals, consumer goods, food and beverage sectors.

In 2023, a long-standing project that had unfortunately been delayed by the pandemic was finally realised. The PLA® conferences are now present in Europe, India, and the United States. The 2023 editions proved to be strong and robust. The programs addressed the challenges of successfully implementing digital lab transformation initiatives. The discussions aimed to question some paradigms and encourage the shift from an application-centric mindset to a digital one,” comments Isabel Muñoz-Willery, Event Director at Paperless Lab Academy®

 In 2024, the PLA® Conferences return with their 11th European edition, their 5th in India and their second in the USA.

Join the discussions!

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