Finding the right lab service provider to perform your testing can be a time-consuming process. It’s crucial to choose one where you can do your best work and achieve your goals. There are many important considerations that you will need to make to ensure the service provider offers value and maximises lab operation, output, and return on investment. Global advancements in the medical and research fields are vital to improving life science research and patient care. Even one small insignificant mistake made in the research process can be detrimental. Below we will share some of the best strategies you need to implement when looking for the best lab service provider.
Conduct Research
You will need to find out what the lab service provider is like, which involves gathering data and asking questions. For example, it might be helpful to look at their website, publication records, and social media. It’s also important to consider the location and distance between you and the testing facility. Also, shipping certain materials may be expensive and time-sensitive. Therefore, selecting a lab service provider in closer proximity is a more reasonable option. Turnaround time on testing is another crucial factor to consider, so you might need to ask for estimates on the lab’s turnaround time. Additionally, you should make sure that you can perform the testing when you need it.
Consider Their Services
When making this level of investment, it’s always recommended to look beyond the cost and think about the value or impact the lab service provider will offer. For example, Source BioScience provides a sanger sequencing service, which delivers the fastest turnaround times with a quick and easy-to-use online ordering process. Their sanger sequencing services also include free use of 40 stock primers and direct access to their local lab. As a result, Source BioScience can be your perfect partner for high-quality sequencing. Additionally, other services include next-generation sequencing, microarray analysis, genotyping, and bioinformatics.
Evaluate Workflow Support
It is also crucial to think about daily and long-term workflow support, as it’s likely that the scope of your workflow will change or expand. Therefore, a lab service provider must be proactive in providing good workflow support and monitoring instruments in real-time. This enables the lab service provider to anticipate and even prevent any downtime by responding quickly to issues. Constant monitoring will provide you with peace of mind that instruments are functioning properly. Moreover, a lab service provider should also consider the different health and safety risks related to lab work.
Assess The Communication Process
Finally, you should also think about whether the lab service provider has been quick to respond to your queries during your interactions. Consider whether they have made an effort to obtain accurate information to assess the communication process. It is best to find a lab service provider that you feel comfortable engaging with and who you feel will be responsive to your requirements. Also, before making a final decision, determine how they report their findings to you and how long it takes to receive reports once testing has concluded.