Project Deep Dive: Part 4: Implementation

As part of our Lab Software Projects Deep Dive series, #TeamKC is addressing the various project types we work on and how we help biotechs feel more confident using their laboratory software.

In Part 4, we dive into the Implementation process for a new system and everything that follows.

Once the Selection process of a new laboratory software system is complete, it’s time to implement your new system. The Implementation stage requires a high degree of collaboration and attention to detail, as well as a deep knowledge of scientific, technical, and interpersonal factors, which Karchem Consulting excels in. 

The Evolution of Data Migration

Karchem Consulting works with many biotechs that have spent years generating mountains of data. Moving all of this information into a new system can be a monumental effort, especially if the lab's current data management framework is less than ideal. This often evolves into a project all its own. Our team makes this process as easy as possible for your scientists and end users, ensuring that any legacy data that needs to be transferred is moved and organized as efficiently as possible. 

Change Management Defines Success

Once a new system is implemented, Team KC focuses on ensuring good user behavior. Scientists are understandably focused on their science, not the software. That’s where Karchem Consulting comes in. Whether there’s a lack of understanding of the new system's benefits, a lack of confidence caused by undertraining, or they're simply too used to their previous routines, we’ll be by your side to make sure your team can focus on their research and leave the rest to us. 

The maintenance and overall success of a newly implemented laboratory software depends largely on how effectively change management is handled. Our team understands that creating a scalable data infrastructure is reliant on our clients trusting the process, and our team encourages user adoption by providing active training and support for both scientists and IT teams.

Go-Live Implementation Is Not The End

It's important to understand that implementing new software is not a simple one-off transaction. Users often have questions about their new workflows, may need additional support to drive full participation, and system features often require small tweaks. All of these factors are why we continue our collaboration well after the system is up and running. 

System aspects that scientists often fail to consider until after implementation include:

• Naming Conventions

  • The right naming conventions ensure that all data is labeled and organized in a way that makes sense across teams, descriptive enough to understand at a glance, and machine-readable. Otherwise, you'll waste precious time searching for entities that could have various naming styles across teams. At Karchem Consulting, we always aim to standardize format and auto-assign IDs when possible.

• Data Model Editing

  • Data model updates can be challenging, even if it’s a simple change. Some clients forget to establish change management procedures ahead of their system go-live. This can make these updates even more difficult and lead to significant downstream impacts. 

Karchem Consulting works with labs to ensure that these issues are addressed. When we say we build long-term partnerships with our clients, we mean it. 

Throughout our Deep Dive Series, we’ve discussed the project types and phases Karchem Consulting can tackle. Our team of consultants is ready to help, from evaluating your biotech’s scientific and technical operations, to supporting your growing team through managed services, selecting the biotechnology software that best suits your team’s needs, and implementing your new system. We’re with you every step of the way and will stay on as your partner to ensure success. 

Ready to transform your lab's data infrastructure? Contact us at Karchem Consulting today to get started.

Check out the rest of our Project Deep Dive Series here: 

• Part 1: Evaluation

• Part 2: Managed Services

• Part 3: Selection