ABSTRACT
Whether a laboratory information management system (LIMS) is purchased from a commercial vendor or a laboratory hires a consultant to write a database application, some design considerations are fundamental. This chapter will focus on the various design concepts and fundamental considerations necessary in constructing or purchasing an LIMS. There are several different software development approaches and they are all valid. However, some are more appropriate for simple projects while others may be better suited for complex systems. The development team can determine which approach is best suited for its particular project.
