Workflow management systems interfacing

The realization of the view-based cooperation model has required a number of extensions to this coupling mechanism with respect to the coupling of AHEAD systems and workflow management systems [129, 471]. Mainly, the application logic of AHEAD was substantively changed and extended in order to realize the new view-based concepts for process views, cooperation relationships, flexible configuration support, as well as the needed user interfaces for a view editor environment. 

Data manipulation software is an important component of data management systems. As well as a vital component of the build process of integrated data resources, they are used in their APIs and user interfaces. In addition, Web services and the workflow software provide a means of finking applications with data resources to create complex workflows. These workflows may be used by biologists as stand-alone analysis packages. Again, we present here a review of the most currently used packages rather than a comprehensive list. 

When selecting or developing a LIMS, a laboratory should be clear why the system is needed and what workflow and business functions it must support. Keeping the installation simple in scope, design and, most importantly, user interface will help ensure success. As the laboratory s business changes over time, so must its LIMS. Continued investment in information management must be expected. 

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