The digitalization of laboratories in the life sciences industry holds enormous potential, but many companies face major challenges. According to a recent BearingPoint study based on in-depth interviews with experts from seven renowned life sciences companies, there is often a lack of an overarching approach to overcoming technological, strategic and regulatory hurdles.
The vision of a scientific laboratory in which systems and tools are seamlessly networked, data is available at all times, experiments are automated and environmental factors are taken into account could become a reality.
The results of the study show that many companies are still at the beginning of their digital journey. However, with targeted measures, companies can significantly accelerate the process and reap the benefits of a networked, efficient laboratory landscape more quickly. Efficient laboratories are an indispensable backbone for safeguarding health and prosperity in modern industrial societies. It is therefore important to prepare them today for future technological and economic challenges and to increase their efficiency.
Digitalization in laboratories: a necessary, albeit complex, change
The insights gained from the interviews show that many companies have already taken their first steps towards digitalization. Nevertheless, advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) remain largely visions of the future. The full integration of these technologies is hampered by technical, organizational and regulatory obstacles.
A central goal that was emphasized by all the experts surveyed is the paperless laboratory. This is seen as a major step forward in increasing efficiency and transparency. However, the path to complete digitalization requires more than just a modern technical infrastructure. It is essential that management also has comprehensive digital skills and that digital tools are used and programmed responsibly.
Technological, strategic and regulatory hurdles are slowing down progress
The benefits of automation and digitalization in laboratories are significantly hampered by various framework conditions. One key problem is the lack of integrated systems, which leads to incompatible isolated solutions and manual work steps. Strict regulatory requirements and a lack of digital skills among employees make the digital transformation even more difficult. There is often a lack of a strategic approach, which means that digitalization is only implemented selectively and not as a holistic process.
Targeted measures are required to successfully lead laboratories into the digital future. This includes the development of uniform digital infrastructures with open interfaces and standardized systems to enable seamless networking. Companies must also invest more in training programs to develop the digital skills of their employees. A sustainable transformation requires strategic planning with clearly defined implementation steps and the use of digital tools that enable real optimization. Automation technologies such as robotics and AI play a key role in reducing manual activities and increasing efficiency.
You can find the full article at:
https://www.bearingpoint.com/de-de/ueber-uns/pressemitteilungen-und-medienberichte/pressemitteilungen/zwischen-reagenzglas-und-algorithmus-das-labor-der-zukunft-unter-dem-mikroskop/
Source: BearingPoint (03/2025)
Infographics
Study on the transformation of laboratories
https://www.bearingpoint.com/files/Digital_Lab_Studie_Infografik_final.pdf?download=0&itemId=1281183
Networked hardware optimizes laboratory processes and research quality
https://www.bearingpoint.com/files/Tranformation_von_Laboren_UseCase_01_final.pdf?download=0&itemId=1283535