Top 5 Reasons to Demand Modularity in your New Lab

Matt Suttner — Mon, 15 May 2017 11:13:35 +0000

Modernist architect, Louis Sullivan, coined the well-known and oft repeated phrase, “form follows function”. Certainly a fundamental principle of most design categories; but it is especially true in an environment where specialisation of tasks and workflow efficiency is paramount. In other words, function is of utmost importance in the laboratory space. But what happens when function must adapt to new tasks and new technology? When a lab is highly customised and elements are fixed, the evolutionary process becomes costly and long periods of downtime are incurred. As lab design specialists, we therefore strongly advise that when building a new lab, or renovating an existing one, modularity is considered a priority.

Here are our top 5 reasons why the demand for modularity should never be comprised on:

1) Flexibility

The future is always an unknown, and despite our best efforts to accurately predict what will or won’t occur, certainty is unachievable. In fact, it would seem that disruptive technologies and sudden changes in market demands are a common feature of the 21st century. So we ask, can your lab adapt timeously to the erratic forces of new staff requirements, new equipment and new tests?

2) Long Renovation Cycles

Chances are you’ve waited a long time for your new lab. And chances are that you won’t get another new lab for another 10-20 years. Incorporating modular systems can cost as little as 20-35% more than a traditional lab, but these systems will have benefits for up to 20 years.

3) Reduce Downtime

Adapting a lab with a significant amount of fixed components will require construction work that can last up to several weeks (and cost a prohibitive amount of money – but we’ll get to that). With modular components, your lab is easier to maintain and repair, thereby reducing downtime and making sure that it remains operational and efficient.

4) Save Money

Assuming a modest 5% increase in operational efficiency, a modular lab will pay for itself in as little as 5 years. Don’t under budget a lab and force the project to make concessions and cut corners. These compromises will inevitably get very expensive down the road.

5) Filter out Unqualified Professionals

Due to the specialized nature of lab design and their long renovation cycles, most architectural firms and shopfitters are not aware of the modular systems available to labs. Demanding modularity means that you can test professionals to see if they are proficient lab designers.

While labs often have unique needs, the application of modular design (combined with the correct zoning of tasks and the implementation of flexible planning) will undoubtedly produce labs that, over their lifetimes, are the most efficient and cost effective option currently available.

Contact Beryl Labs for further info.

5 Things Every Lab Manager Should Know Before Renovating a Lab

Matt Suttner — Fri, 17 Mar 2017 12:25:53 +0000

Managing a research facility is not an easy task, and there is often no small amount of trepidation when it comes to planning and proposing a lab renovation. You may recognise the need for an overhaul of your existing facilities, but find yourself asking, “Where do I start?” Don’t worry, expert help is at hand. Here are a few tips that should assist you in the process of turning your current lab into a cutting-edge research powerhouse.

1. Know your objective

A list of clearly defined objectives will help enormously when decisions between various alternatives need to be made. Common objectives include safety, upcoming audits, workflow efficiency, and an aesthetics update to please prospective customers, investors, and staff. Additionally, being armed with a list of well-articulated reasons as to why the execs should approve the project will make the process of pitching your vision much easier.

2. Know your scope

Once you have your objectives you can set about differentiating between must-haves and nice-to-haves. Must-haves are the elements of the project that are essential to realising your stated objectives. For example, if modernizing your lab’s aesthetic is your objective, then everything that looks old must be replaced.

3. Establish your budget

It is vital that you pay the necessary attention to this aspect of the project. A quality pitch to execs will go a long way in having your budget approved, so always point out that efficient labs generate substantial value. Focus on that all important bottom line by highlighting the fact that a new lab can decrease operating costs, attract more customers, recruit better talent, retain talent longer, and reduce risk of injury and downtime.

4. Know what’s going in your lab

Once the renovation has started, it’s far more difficult to add elements that were overlooked, so it’s imperative to have a thorough understanding of what equipment will be needed, and who will be working with the equipment. At this stage, it is very helpful to analyse and predict workflow: e.g. “Technician 1 receives sample A and performs task B. Then technician 2 uses equipment C to perform task D, etc.”

5. Build your project team

Most lab renovations, even smaller scopes of work, require a professional team consisting of a project manager, designer, contractor and suppliers. For smaller projects, a single specialist may provide all of these services. Previous experience in lab construction and design is always a must. If possible, ask to speak to references, and try to see already completed work. A good service provider should be able to provide substantial value before you even hire them: giving free advice on timelines, materials, products, and designs.

Now that you have the basics, feel free to contact the industry leaders, Beryl Labs and learn more about the ins and outs of planning your lab renovation.

lab renovation – Beryl Laboratory Solutions