laboratorycomplete

Laboratorycomplete is a descriptive term used in laboratory science to denote a state in which all aspects of a workflow are comprehensively documented, validated, and traceable from sample receipt to final data reporting. Proponents view laboratorycomplete as essential for reproducibility, quality assurance, and regulatory readiness.

The term is a portmanteau of "laboratory" and "complete" and has circulated in quality-management and informatics discussions since the early 2000s. It is not an official standard, but rather a guiding concept that labs may adopt to frame their practices, tools, and governance around end-to-end data integrity.

Core elements commonly associated with laboratorycomplete include robust sample and material tracking, instrument calibration and maintenance logs, standardized operating procedures, version-controlled electronic notebooks, and comprehensive metadata. It also emphasizes audit trails, secure data storage, and data provenance. Realizing laboratorycomplete often entails integrating laboratory information management systems (LIMS), electronic lab notebooks (ELN), and automated data workflows to support reproducibility and compliance.

Adoption can improve traceability, audit-readiness, and efficiency in onboarding new staff. Potential challenges include the cost of tools and integration, managing data volumes, and maintaining usability as the scope expands. The concept is especially relevant in regulated environments such as pharmaceutical development, clinical testing, and academic research seeking robust reproducibility.

Related concepts include Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), Good Documentation Practice (GDP), LIMS, ELN, data provenance, and reproducibility initiatives.