LIMS vs LIS: What's the Difference?
Understanding when to use a Laboratory Information Management System vs a Laboratory Information System
Trusted by leading diagnostic labs and life sciences companies
LIMS
Laboratory Information Management System
Sample-centric system focused on tracking samples through workflows, managing inventory, and ensuring quality control across various laboratory types.
Best For:
- Research laboratories
- Environmental testing labs
- Quality control labs
- Pharmaceutical labs
- Food & beverage testing
LIS
Laboratory Information System
Patient-centric system designed for clinical laboratories, focusing on patient data, test ordering, result reporting, and billing integration.
Best For:
- Hospital laboratories
- Clinical reference labs
- Diagnostic testing labs
- Pathology labs
- Blood banks
Feature Comparison
| Feature | LIMS | LIS |
|---|---|---|
| Patient demographics focus | ||
| Sample/specimen tracking | ||
| Inventory management | ||
| EMR/EHR integration | ||
| Billing integration | ||
| Batch processing | ||
| Scientific data management | ||
| Regulatory compliance (CLIA/CAP) | ||
| Result reporting to providers | ||
| Chain of custody tracking |
Which Do You Need?
Choose LIMS if you:
- • Track samples through complex workflows
- • Need inventory and reagent management
- • Perform research or non-clinical testing
- • Require batch processing capabilities
- • Focus on sample chain of custody
Choose LIS if you:
- • Process patient specimens for diagnosis
- • Need EMR/EHR integration
- • Require billing and insurance integration
- • Report results to ordering providers
- • Focus on patient data management
Note: Many modern systems blur these lines, offering hybrid solutions that combine LIMS and LIS functionality.