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Original Date: 11/03/1996
Revision Date: 01/18/2007
Information : Energy Systems Laboratory Information Management System
In 1992, Lockheed Martin Energy Systems (LMES) managed five analytical laboratories: three in Oak Ridge, Tennessee (the Y-12 Plant, the East Tennessee Technology Park, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory), one in Portsmouth, Ohio, and one in Paducah, Kentucky. Previously, each used its own nomenclature, test criteria, and information management system. Customers using these laboratories encountered multiple reports in multiple formats. In addition, each laboratory had varying levels of automation. Some used Ethernet and established networks while others had limited computing capabilities. Handling incoming samples also varied from site-to-site. Communication among the laboratories became impeded by the differing nomenclature even when discussing similar testing procedures.
To resolve this situation, the Data Systems Research and Development (DSRD) group developed a uniform, interactive system for the five analytical laboratories called the Energy Systems Laboratory Information Management System (ESLIMS). First, the DSRD group assisted the laboratories on standardizing the nomenclature, sample preparation, test requirements for specific analyses, and test turnaround times. Based on these standards, the DSRD group developed models. The laboratories then verified that the models met the needs of the users. Next, the DSRD group used the models to develop the programming code. Because of the diverse automation levels at the laboratories, the DSRD group developed both character and graphical user interfaces. The flexibility of ESLIMS’ data screens and tables allow each laboratory to customize the flagging, system default, and help functions for its entry person.
In use for more than a year, ESLIMS provides a cost-effective solution for achieving commonality across the analytical laboratories and for responding to changing business requirements. A cost/benefit analysis of the system estimated a savings of $1 million per year over a five-year period.
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