A generalized laboratory software package--a prototype approach

Area of Science:

• Medical Informatics
• Laboratory Science
• Software Engineering

Background:

• The increasing number of laboratories and tests necessitates efficient data management systems.
• Existing laboratory information systems often lack flexibility for rapid expansion and maintenance.
• Computerization of laboratory testing and results registration is crucial for modern healthcare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a prototyped model of a generalized, table-driven software package for laboratory testing and results registration.
• To address the need for a flexible system capable of integrating numerous laboratories and tests.
• To develop a solution that simplifies system maintenance and the addition of new laboratories.

Main Methods:

• Development of a generalized laboratory software package (GLAB) based on a table-driven architecture.
• Implementation of user-maintained data tables for system configuration.
• Creation of a menu-driven interface for user interaction and system management.
• Integration of GLAB with existing hospital information systems.

Main Results:

• A functional prototyped model of the generalized laboratory software package (GLAB) was successfully created.
• The table-driven approach allows for the quick addition of new laboratories to the system.
• User-maintained tables facilitate ease of system maintenance and customization.
• The menu-controlled environment provides a user-friendly interface for laboratory operations.

Conclusions:

• The generalized laboratory software package (GLAB) provides a flexible and maintainable solution for computerizing multiple laboratories.
• This table-driven approach effectively addresses the challenges of scaling laboratory information systems.
• GLAB enhances efficiency in laboratory testing and results registration within a hospital environment.