DNA sequencing provided by facilities usually sustains significant numbers of users and experiment types. The use of liquid handling robots lowers the cost of DNA sequencing services but the competency of such facilities is hindered as it is hard to find the software for robots that integrates well with the systems operating the sequencing machines.
Hence, there is an increasing demand for softwares that can integrate various robotic systems and manage sample data for DNA sequencing services. The Protein Information Management System (PIMS) has been specifically designed to serve this purpose in DNA sequencing facilities.
The latest version of PIMS consists of a simple easy-to-use web interface that covers all aspects of the sequencing process from submitting samples, handling, tracking, and managing data.
The University of Leeds DNA Sequencing Facility has been producing the PIMS sequencing extension since July 2009. This sequencing extension has completely simplified the process of data management and user communication.
Samples processed from 45 groups offer an average throughput of 10000 samples per month. Currently, PIMS sequencing extension is compatible with the Applied Biosystems 3130XL 96-well plate sequencer, MWG 4204 or Aviso Theonyx liquid handling robots and other combinations of robots.
Source: http://www.leeds.ac.uk/