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Detailing LigoLab’s Laboratory Information System Cloud Readiness Plan
August 21, 2024
In a recent announcement, LigoLab’s product development team updated platform users on the behind-the-scenes work underway to ensure cloud readiness and optimal LIS laboratory information system performance.
Learn More: LigoLab Announces Recent Laboratory Informatics Platform Updates
In this blog post, we’ll detail why LigoLab is committed to cloud readiness for its all-in-one LIS system and lab revenue cycle management (lab RCM, in-house laboratory billing) application, and why your clinical lab or pathology group should consider deploying its medical LIS software in a cloud computing environment.
What is Cloud Readiness and Why is LigoLab Preparing its LIS Software for this Migration?
Let’s start with a basic explanation of what cloud readiness is.
Cloud readiness for LIS systems like the LigoLab Informatics Platform refers to the steps needed to prepare and adapt the LIS software for deployment in a cloud computing environment.
At a high level, this involves evaluating (and possibly modifying) the LIS system software to ensure it can efficiently utilize cloud resources, maintain performance and security standards, and fully leverage the benefits of cloud technology.
At a more granular level, LigoLab users will be pleased to know that the LigoLab development team has been busily preparing for cloud readiness for a while now by actively refactoring the LIS laboratory platform’s codebase and enhancing security protocols. This includes integrating advanced security measures to protect data integrity and implementing scalable architectures to accommodate varying laboratory needs.
For example, LigoLab leverages Azure’s advanced security features, including encryption at rest and in transit, real-time threat detection, and compliance with industry standards such as HIPAA and HITECH, thereby ensuring that laboratory data is protected against unauthorized access and cyber threats, providing peace of mind for users.
Learn More: LigoLab Announces Strategic Hosting Partnership with Microsoft Azure
With every newly released version of the laboratory information system application, more and more features and functionality are migrating from the workstation to the server.
Just as important, this migration is happening without disruption to laboratory information system functions, allowing customers to fully use the power of the advanced LIS lab pathology software to manage and grow their lab businesses.
What is already noticeable and appreciated is the faster performance of all operational screens from remote locations even with constrained bandwidth. For example, ordering, grossing, histology processing, and result entry are just a few of the operational screens that now perform at the same speed remotely as when working inside the laboratory.
Additionally, users will benefit from automated data synchronization and enhanced remote access capabilities, with these improvements allowing labs to manage higher volumes of data with greater efficiency while reducing manual intervention and minimizing errors.
By addressing and preparing for various aspects of cloud computing now, LigoLab can assure users of a smooth and secure transition when the time is right to move away from the challenges of an on-premise server.
LigoLab’s Strategic Approach: Enhancing a Proven Lab Information System Platform
LigoLab has chosen a strategic path that builds upon its robust existing lab information system platform rather than developing a separate cloud-based system.
Since 2006, LigoLab has continuously invested in enhancing its core LIS laboratory information system, focusing on refactoring, improving performance, and modernizing the architecture. This approach ensures our solutions remain reliable and scalable, providing users with the powerful and versatile lab management system software they require.
By continuously refining the main platform, LigoLab allows users to seamlessly transition between dedicated workstation versions and browser-based operations, without sacrificing features or capabilities. This flexibility ensures laboratories can choose the most suitable access method for their needs while benefiting from the laboratory information system's comprehensive functionality. Our commitment to this long-term strategy guarantees that laboratories can operate efficiently and effectively, regardless of their preferred technology setup.
The Six Biggest Benefits of Having a Cloud-Hosted Laboratory Information System
Now let’s take a closer look at the six top benefits realized by those medical labs that deploy laboratory information system software with a cloud-based server.
Flexible Scaling
With cloud servers medical labs can quickly scale resources up or down based on current demand. This is much more flexible when compared to on-premise servers, where scaling often requires purchasing additional hardware, and scaling down leaves unused and wasted resources.
Recovery and Continuity
Cloud providers typically offer robust disaster recovery solutions that on-premise servers can’t match. Data can be backed up automatically and geo-replicated across multiple locations, ensuring data integrity and availability even if a major disaster hits.
Lower Overall Cost
Cloud servers usually operate with a pay-as-you-go pricing model, meaning you pay only for the resources you use. Compare that to the significant upfront cost of purchasing an on-premise server, and the ongoing expense of maintaining on-premise hardware and you can see where the cloud computing model has the edge, and that’s also before considering other on-premise costs like power, cooling, and physical space.
Accessibility
Cloud servers can be accessed from anywhere and at all times with a simple internet connection. This facilitates remote work and widespread collaboration that can span the globe.
Security
While concern over server security, regardless of its placement, is an ongoing issue that we’re all grappling with, it should be noted that reputable cloud providers can invest more heavily in sophisticated security measures that are often more expensive than an individual organization might be able to afford. This includes physical security, cybersecurity, and compliance with regulatory standards.
Innovation
Cloud providers can continuously integrate the latest technologies and innovations into their services, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced analytics. This is very advantageous for users, giving them the power to leverage these new technologies without first purchasing expensive, specialized hardware or software.
LigoLab’s LIS Laboratory Information System Architecture Offers Server Flexibility
We should point out that while it’s true that cloud-based servers offer many benefits, they also might not be suitable for every clinical lab and pathology practice.
Learn More: LigoLab’s LIS Software Offers Server Flexibility
Some organizations with highly sensitive data or specific regulatory requirements and standards may find that on-premise servers still offer greater control and security. Others may already have established IT departments, a server room, and a strong desire to keep the data close. If that’s the case, continuing with an on-premise server might be the best option for the time being.
For newer or start-up operations with smaller testing volumes and no plans to hire an extensive IT team, a cloud server solution may represent the best fit.
Regardless of which server path a given organization wishes to take, LigoLab’s flexible architecture enables the LIS software application to be deployed via a cloud or on-premise server.
If you’re interested in learning more about LigoLab’s approach to LIS system server placement and cloud computing readiness you’re invited to connect with one of our talented product specialists who would be happy to answer your questions.
