Lab Automation vs. Manual Processes

In the modern laboratory, speed, accuracy and efficiency is paramount. Automation therefore is no longer optional, but a key driver of lab performance - positioning robotic and automated systems as the future of laboratory workflows.

What are Manual Lab Processes?

Manual lab processes are defined as those that involve hands-on tasks. For example, specimen handling, direct data entry, manual reporting and fundamental techniques like pouring and weighing. These often time-intensive tasks have major limitations: they provide difficulties with scaling, can create workflow bottlenecks, and pose a higher risk of human error. Although manual methods have served labs well historically, these processes cannot match the efficiency and reliability of automation.

What is Lab Automation?

Lab automation is a catch-all term for the use of digital technologies in laboratories. Automated lab equipment has traditionally meant software-based programs that take on repetitive or precision tasks with increased efficiency, accuracy and consistency. Thanks to innovators like Astech however, lab automation solutions now include Robotic Lab Assistants (RLAs). These are mobile robots able to take on more complex, physical tasks due to advanced technologies like AI.

Key Advantages of Lab Automation Over Manual Processes

The advantages of automated labs over manual labs are multiple, and worth breaking down point by point:

Increased speed and throughput. Automated systems can operate 24/7 without breaks or fatigue, processing larger volumes of samples in less time than can be done manually, and significantly increasing lab throughput.

Higher accuracy and reproducibility. Automation ensures high levels of precision for more accurate, consistent results across experiments, which leads to greater data reliability and reproducibility.

Enhanced safety and reduced human error. Reducing manual processes in the lab can improve safety by cutting down human exposure to hazardous materials. And minimising the opportunity for human error ensures higher accuracy and consistency.

Optimised staff utilisation. Automation can handle the dull, dangerous and repetitive tasks, leaving skilled scientists to focus on higher-value analytical or innovation tasks, which increases job satisfaction and reduces burnout.

Scalability for high-throughput labs. Customising and scaling lab automation solutions provides the flexibility to meet the evolving needs of high-throughput labs, enabling them to adapt to new tech or increased demands with minimal workflow disruption.

Automation not only matches, but surpasses manual workflows in almost every measurable way.

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Real-World Impact: How Automation Transforms Workflows

Automation has revolutionised workflows by taking on tasks that traditionally required manual effort, for example: sample handling, plate management, reagent preparation, data logging and repetitive testing - performing these tasks with more speed, accuracy and efficiency. Automation systems provide more consistent results, faster turnaround times and better compliance with regulations.

When Manual Processes Are Still Used

So, do manual processes remain at all relevant? The answer, of course, is yes, but in increasingly limited scenarios, such as niche experiments, very small labs or when dealing with restrictive budget constraints. Manual processes in the modern lab are now the exception rather than the rule. Although most laboratories find that hybrid approaches are best when transitioning to full automation, and retain some manual tasks going through this process.

Why Astech is the Go-To Partner for Lab Automation

Astech’s expertise in intelligent laboratory robotics and automation makes us the perfect partner to assist your transition towards partial or full automation. Here’s what we offer:

Flexible robotic lab assistant solutions for labs of all sizes. Regardless of scale or budget, we can provide the right robotic assistant to enhance your laboratory workflow.

Integration with existing workflows and instruments. Our smarter automation solutions integrate seamlessly with your existing production software and infrastructure.

Proven track record in increasing lab efficiency and accuracy. We are known across industries for our expertise and customisation capabilities delivering high-quality robotic lab solutions.

Support and consultancy for labs transitioning from manual to automated workflows. We proudly offer our customers REACTS® (Rapid, Effective And Complete Technical Support), a scalable range of responsive support for all your automation equipment.

We are a trusted partner that can guide you through any and every step of automation adoption.

Choosing the Right Automation Solution

If you’re thinking about automation for your laboratory, carefully assess your throughput needs, lab size, budget, staff skills and compliance requirements. Together, these will help you to understand the best automation software opportunities for you. Engage with Astech and our expertise will help you identify scalable solutions that we can tailor specifically to your lab’s unique workflow.

The superiority of Lab Automation vs. Manual Processes is clearly evident. The former’s benefits of speed, accuracy, safety and scalability mean that, in most modern laboratories, partial or full automation is now a given. Contact Astech to discuss our robotic lab assistants and we can arrange a consultation, demo or tailored automation plan to help improve your lab’s productivity and output.