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SAMPLES Dashboard with colorful analytical charts on a tablet sitting on a work surface in a modern laboratory setting with various laboratory containers (AI-generated)

Release notes

Here you can keep up to date with important changes, new features and functions as well as the latest improvements to our SAMPLES.

SAMPLES 2.0 Release

August 2026 | Version 2.0

User & Role Management

  • Sign-in via OpenID Connect: SAMPLES offers centralized account management with single sign-on and role assignment via OpenID groups, allowing you to use your company’s existing centralized sign-in service.

Sample management

  • “Investigation Objective” Renamed: The previous term “Investigation Objective” has been renamed “Investigation Template.”
  • Creating Analyses Directly from Samples: Analyses can be created directly from the sample view. Any number of analyses can be created for each sample. A separate analysis template (formerly known as an analysis objective) can be defined for each analysis, and each analysis has its own status history.
  • Improved batch analysis: Multiple samples can be created simultaneously using a single test template – regardless of whether or not plates are used. Quick parameter entry via copy-and-paste or keyboard significantly increases efficiency during sample creation.
  • Creating Multiple Tests: It is now possible to create multiple tests using multiple templates for multiple samples in a single step – consistently for single samples, multiple selections, and orders.
  • Creating Multiple Samples as a Set: If multiple samples are created at once, they can be linked together as a sample set. Each sample is its own container with its own quantity and unit. You can choose a custom format for the set’s numbering.
  • Flexible configuration of sample carriers: For tests involving multiple samples, the size of the carrier and the number of measurements per sample can be freely defined. As long as the test is in the planning stage, additional samples can be added. It is also possible to specify which sample is placed where and which slots are reserved or blocked for controls. This can be done either manually or automatically. The arrangement can be saved as a layout and reused. In addition, it is possible to analyze samples from different orders together. This allows for optimal use of space on the carrier. The report for a specific order will still only list that order’s own samples.
  • Advanced Duplication: When duplicating entire object trees, the associated examinations are now copied by default. If this is not desired, it can be optionally disabled.
  • Completing Examinations with Missing Values: It is now possible to mark individual values as “N/A” and add comments. This is useful, for example, when a measurement was not technically possible. This allows such examinations to be completed anyway.

Order Management

  • Safe Removal of Links: To unlink a job from a linked sample, explicit confirmation of this action is required.
  • Creating Examinations Directly Within an Order: The enhanced order management feature allows you to attach examinations directly to an order. Once all examinations for an order have been completed, the order is automatically closed.
  • Retroactive Linking of Samples to Orders: Registered samples that have not been assigned to an order can be easily assigned retroactively via the sample list. It is not necessary to update the order fields for each sample.

Patient Management

  • Secure Removal of Links: To unlink a patient from a linked sample, explicit confirmation of this action is required.

Device Management & Control Charts

  • Creating Reference Measurements on Control Charts: Using the new “Start Measurement” option, you can create a separate analysis for a reference sample without going through the approval process. The corresponding measurement points link directly to it.
  • Creating Asymmetric Thresholds: The new “Symmetric Thresholds” option allows you to specify whether the upper and lower warning and action thresholds should be set separately. This makes it possible to create asymmetric thresholds when needed.
  • Direct Control of Zebra Printers: Using SAMPLES in the cloud and a SAMPLES Box, Zebra printers can be controlled directly without any prior setup or installation. The printer can simply be selected from a list. To ensure the correct selection, its connection status is also displayed.
  • Designing and Printing Custom Label Templates: You can now create your own label templates . To do so, you can select the format and define placeholders for the QR code, sample number, date, processor, sample type, quantity, and unit. A built-in preview shows how the label would look when printed – without using any label material. Since this feature is powered by an external service, it must be enabled once. By default, it is therefore disabled. Labels can be printed for multiple samples at once.

Audit Trail & Compliance

  • Improved Audit Trail: The previous change log and timeline are being replaced by an object-based audit trail. This allows changes to be traced at any time for any object. This can be done individually for a specific time period or for entire object types directly from the audit trail view.

Handling & Design

  • New layout for even greater usability: With the redesigned tile layout, all important information is even more clearly visible. For example, in the sample and order views, information such as ID, status, and actions remains permanently anchored within the user’s field of view. The large, clearly structured content area now features its own small table of contents, allowing users to navigate quickly and easily to the desired content. In addition, sections containing discrepancies or missing information are immediately highlighted for easy identification. These improvements also apply to the app on tablets and smartphones.
  • Sorting Columns: You can customize the column order in the views. Columns can be easily rearranged using drag-and-drop. This feature is also available for data export. It replaces the previous “Fixed Column” option.
  • Sorting Catalog Entries: Within the catalogs, entries can be manually reordered as needed. This can be done easily using the arrow keys and is also possible for entire blocks.
  • Filter by Test Results: You can now also filter by test results. Currently, this is available for master data, method, and calculated parameters.
  • Filter by method status: It is now also possible to filter samples based on the status of individual assigned methods.
  • Improved display of test progress: Test progress is now displayed in the sample list as a bar in a separate column. Using a color-coded traffic light system, this shows at a glance how many tests for the sample have the status “scheduled,” “in progress,” “completed,” or “rejected.”
  • Improved Result Entry: The display of the steps in the individual examination has also been adapted to the new layout, making it even easier to keep track of the overall sequence of all steps. This also optimizes result entry, as it is no longer necessary to switch between the different step views.

Falling Leaves Release

October 2025 | Version 1.9

As colorful as autumn has been again, so diverse are the innovations of the current Falling Leaves release. From calculations and quality control charts to features for even more clarity and efficiency when working with SAMPLES, there are once again many exciting SAMPLES developments:

The new features:

  • Customize report templates
    You can now design your own reports in Word, Excel & Co. Thanks to intelligent placeholders, the appropriate data is output in the predefined position when the report is created.
  • Duplication of orders and samples
    For users who have to deal with orders and samples that have identical properties, working with SAMPLES is now even more efficient: These can now be created by duplicating existing objects. Linked objects, such as samples on orders or child samples, can also be optionally taken into account.
  • Quality control charts
    Reference measurements can now be stored in control charts to monitor the reliability of the measurements. Limit value violations and trends are proactively visualized for the user so that appropriate corrective measures can be taken.
  • Perform calculations
    Parameters can now also be calculated automatically from entered or calculated values.

Further information:

  • Display of examination progress in the list views
    The current status of the assigned examination methods is now shown in the sample list and can therefore be recognized and filtered by the user at a glance.
  • Mark samples as “discarded”
    The new feature, which allows samples that no longer physically exist to be marked as “discarded”, ensures even more order in the system. This makes it possible to hide them from the lists with a single click for even greater clarity.

Summer Time Release

July 2025 | Version 1.8

The new features:

Samples and sample types

  • Sample type-specific sample properties
    It is now possible to define sample properties that are only relevant for certain sample types. This makes the creation and editing of samples much clearer and more user-friendly.
  • Audit trail for samples
    The traceability of changes to samples has been improved with a central audit trail function. Changes can be searched by time period with the appropriate authorizations.
  • Creating multiple identical samples improved
    It is now even easier to create multiple samples of the same type. The user interface for this process has been visually and functionally revised. In addition, the function is now also available for orders.
  • More flexible sample list in the order
    The display of the sample list within an order is now much more flexible: users can configure how the list is structured themselves.

Order management & investigation objectives

  • Order of test targets in the order is retained
    When assigning test targets in an order, the order is now adopted according to the time of addition. This sequence is also passed on to the samples.

Warehouse management

  • Box relocation possible
    Boxes can now be moved to other compartments or storage locations. This makes restructuring in the warehouse much easier.

Export & data display

  • Export with units and decimal places
    When exporting data, the units for measured values are now also output by default and the values are displayed with three decimal places.

User and rights management

  • Shorter user names allowed
    The user name can now be as short as three characters (previously: at least four characters).
  • Hiding used custom fields possible
    Custom fields can now be specifically hidden in business object masks. This means that fields that are no longer required can be removed from the view without deleting them.

Patient management (new)

  • Patient business object introduced
    Patients can now optionally be managed as a separate GDPR-compliant business object. Order and sample data can be assigned to a patient.
  • The patient mask can be individually extended using custom fields.
  • There are graduated authorizations for the use and visibility of personal data.

 

Further information:

  • Support for Swiss number formats
    The combination of German language setting (German – Swiss) and dot as decimal separator is now correctly supported. The formatting is based on the language set in the system or browser.

Easter Eggs Release

April 2025 | Version 1.7

There is a colorful basket of surprises in our Easter Eggs release: From now on, parameters can be extended by limit values and several samples can be created in one work step. Runs are now created at method level for more flexibility. The filter options for user-defined fields help to quickly get an overview of samples with suitable properties.

 

The new features:

Parameters with limit values

  • Limit values can be defined for numerical parameters and results can be displayed with a corresponding reference

Multiple runs per method

  • Multiple runs are possible at method level
  • More flexibility in the repetition of examinations

Simultaneous creation of several samples

  • Several samples with identical properties can be created in one step

Filter option for user-defined fields

  • It is now also possible to filter by user-defined fields
  • This means that views can be structured even more individually and samples can be filtered out even better according to the relevant criteria
  • For more order in the view, the order of user-defined fields in the masks can now be customized

 

Further information:

  • Many objects now offer optional manual abbreviations that can be used, for example, in the generation of sample numbers
  • Visual makeover – new icons

Valentin Release

February 2025 | Version 1.6

The Valentin release is all about efficiency, delivering significant optimizations that free up valuable time for other tasks. This performance boost primarily enhances the creation of samples and master data, along with improvements in views and overall handling. Additionally, key security features have been extended.

 

Bug fixes and improvements:

Performance Boost for Sample and Master Data Creation

  • By further reducing mandatory fields based on user needs, entering the required information is now significantly faster.
  • Likewise, the requirement for abbreviations has been minimized to speed up data creation considerably.

Improvements in views and handling

  • The sample list now includes a filter option for “Order Number.”
  • The automatic sample number generation has been optimized to ensure even more reliable and standardized creation of sample numbers. The option for manual adjustments remains available for selected roles.

Security Feature Enhancements

  • Significant improvements have been made to the “Reset Password” option. Users who request a reset via the login window will now receive an email with a link to set a new password.

 

X-MAS Release

December 2024 | Version 1.5

In this festive season, the new version delivers a special gift for more efficient and flexible laboratory processes. With highlights such as the Flexible Execution Mode for sample investigations, Central Views for workflow standardization, optimized Batch Analysis, and rapid sample storage using Barcode Scanning, everyday lab operations are now significantly more productive and structured. A perfect way to close out the year with many improvements paving the way for the future.

 

The new features:

Flexible Execution Mode

The new Flexible Execution Mode allows sample investigations in research and development environments to be handled with greater flexibility. Instead of following a rigid workflow, users can start with a less defined plan and adjust it dynamically during the investigation. This provides room to react to new findings as they emerge.

 

Before starting an investigation

  • Users can choose between the Standard Mode and the Flexible Execution Mode.

    During the Flexible Execution

    • Parameters and methods can be added or removed at any time.
    • A clear visual marker in the results input differentiates this mode from standard investigations.

    Sample workflow

    • Once results are entered, the sample can either be forwarded for review or directly finalized.
    • Review and approval are performed by independent users in line with the 4-eyes principle.

    New statuses in the workflow

    • In Review: After results entry is completed.
    • Pending Approval: After the review process.
    • Completed: After the final approval.

    Central Views

    The introduction of Central Views enables new opportunities for standardizing workflows. Administrators can define preconfigured views that are rolled out to specific user roles, ensuring they are optimally tailored to respective work processes.

    Functions for administrators

    • Create, adjust, and roll out central views.
    • View assignments of central views to specific user roles.

    Functions for users

    • Central views are available in addition to personally saved views.
    • A clear visual indicator distinguishes central views from personal ones.

       

      Bug fixes and improvements:

      Batch analysis – Apply Values to All Remaining Samples

      • Batch analysis has been enhanced with a new function that simplifies the input of consistent parameters across samples. This allows for more efficient processing of batch samples and minimizes the risk of data entry errors.

      Rapid Sample Storage with Barcode Scanning

      • The new Barcode Scanning feature simplifies and accelerates sample storage. Pre-registered samples can now be quickly assigned to storage locations by scanning their barcodes. This solution streamlines the storage process, especially when handling large quantities of samples, and reduces manual effort.

      Further improvements

      • In addition to the new features mentioned, various optimizations and bug fixes have been implemented to further enhance system stability and usability.

       

      November 2024 | Version 1.4.1

      With this minor release, users benefit not only from the extended device infrastructure and the associated connection to Sartorius scales, but also from the option of uploading documents as user-defined fields. In addition, the new copy function of the data record title makes work more convenient.

       

      The new features:

      Expanded Device Infrastructure: Integration of Sartorius Scales

      • The expansion of the device infrastructure now enables reliable and secure operation of additional local devices through the cloud system.
      • Once communication between the message broker, device adapter, and device has been established, the corresponding laboratory device can be created and connected in SAMPLES.
      • Connected devices are available in the device list and, after enabling specific device functionalities, can be assigned to a method and interacted with accordingly.
      • The following three scales from Sartorius have been integrated: Entris II Essential Line Precision Balance, Entris II Advanced Line Analytical Balance, Cubis II Microbalance.

         

        Expanded Custom Fields: File Upload

        • SAMPLES offers extensive use of custom fields for tailored applications. File uploads are now also supported within these fields.

        • Documents can be uploaded as custom fields to devices, consumables, tasks, and more, allowing relevant information to be stored directly at the source and retrieved as needed.

        • For example, this allows SOPs to be attached to devices and methods, safety data sheets to be attached to consumables and devices, as well as other original documents to be stored.

           

          Bug fixes and improvements:

          Copy Function for Dataset Titles

          • In the title line of a dataset, such as for samples or tasks, “copy” icons have been integrated.

          • Clicking the icon now allows the name to be easily copied for further use.

          August 2024 | Version 1.4

          This update introduces new features such as the option to enter multi-line texts, the use of web links and the option to predefine technical parameters in method editing. These new features enable the user to store additional information that is important for planning an examination or that may arise during the procedure. In addition, label printing is now available directly from the sample list, which simplifies the printing and labeling of larger quantities of samples in everyday laboratory work.

           

          The new features:

          Multiline texts

          • New text block parameters allow for the input of multi-line texts, enabling the documentation of longer comments or more comprehensive overall assessments in the result entry.

          • This feature is now available both in routine processes as well as for free parameters and custom fields.

           

          Web links to external documents

          • With this version, it is possible to link to external documents on the World Wide Web. This enables direct links to, for example, files with large amounts of data or information that is always kept up to date, such as ISO documents, SOPs for devices or safety data sheets for consumables.

          • The web links are available to the user both in the routine and for free parameters and user-defined fields.

           

          Specification of technical device parameters

          • Technical parameters of devices can now be predefined in method editing.
          • The predefined technical parameters are then preset during the examination, but can be adjusted there if necessary.
          • This feature supports the user in entering the results free of technical details and focused on the actual examination.

           

          Label printing from the sample list

          • It is now also possible to print labels for several samples from the sample list.
          • This feature ensures convenient and faster labeling of a large number of samples.

           

          Bug fixes and improvements:

           

          • Improvements and minor bug fixes have been made to the text editor of the work instructions, the main menu, the method configuration and the Yes/No parameter.

          June 2024 | Version 1.3

          This update introduces important new features, such as formattable work instructions, the use of FLUICS label printers, and enhanced interaction with devices. Users particularly benefit from these innovations by being able to map even more complex workflows with devices, as well as integrate external content and media into formattable work instructions. This allows for optimal customization to meet individual needs. (June 2024)

           

          The new features:

          Customizable Work Instructions

          • Work instructions can now be formatted and enhanced with media such as images, videos, or content from other websites. This allows for optimal structuring and supports customization to meet user-specific needs in preparation.
          • The following options are available: Font size, font color, font style (bold, italic, underline); bulleted and numbered lists; embedded images; Links to websites; Links to videos (e.g. YouTube)

           

          Use of FLUICS label printers

          • FLUICS Label printers can now be easily integrated into the device management system
          • Sample labels for aliquots can be printed in series according to the required quantity.

           

          Enhanced Device Interactions

          • For devices connected via SiLA 2 or OPC UA LADS, extended options are now available.
          • If increased clarity is desired, necessary device functions can be specifically configured.
          • There is also the possibility to individually name device functions.
          • Multiple configurations are available for interacting with the devices: values can be read from or written to devices. Additionally, it is possible to invoke actions within devices, where both incoming and outgoing values can be configured. As a result, a variety of complex workflows with devices can be implemented. Please contact us for specific connection requests.

           

          Bug fixes and improvements:

           

          • Individual parameters can now be hidden in the examination reports.
          • In selection fields (e.g., sample type), where there is only one option available, it is now automatically preselected.

          April 2024 | Version 1.2

          This update introduces the new features of consumables, examination reports and the ability to connect devices and data analysis to complement and complete the digital examination process with important aspects. In addition, the new main menu and the new individual results input improve user-friendly operation.

           

          The new features:

          Consumables

          • Consumables can be created and configured in the laboratory process.
          • An overview of the consumables and their currently available remaining quantities can be viewed centrally at any time in the consumables list. It is also possible to select the currently available consumables during the examination process.
          • The traceability of consumables is guaranteed (e.g. for batch products).

           

          Investigation report

          • An inspection report (PDF) can be generated in an order.
          • This contains all relevant information about an investigation (including file attachments, images, etc.).

           

          Connection of devices

          • For devices connected via SiLA 2 or OPC UA LADS, extended options are now available.
          • Please contact us for specific connection requests.

           

          External data analysis

          • Integration of the evaluation and analysis of survey data collected using Jupyter Lab.
          • If you have specific requests for data analysis, please contact us.

           

          Authentication

          • Authentication takes place via the secure OAuth procedure.

           

          Bug fixes and improvements:

          Individually customise

          • Saving favorites in the main menu enables quick access to frequently used menu items.
          • Users can save several individual filters to easily access frequently used lists via the main menu.
          • Catalogs can be intuitively created and edited directly in the main menu.

          Work clearly

          • Individual examination results can now be entered more intuitively and conveniently.
          • Users can safely perform assisted examinations with step-by-step instructions.
          • The list of necessary consumables supports the preparation and execution of the examination.

          Always up to date

          • If other users make changes or updates that relate to the currently open list, this is actively indicated by a message in the window.

          August 2023 | Version 1.1

          This update introduces the new features Timeline, Versioning, Audit Trail and Batch Analysis to track changes clearly. There are also optimisations in the menu, profile and personal settings to improve the usability.

          The new features:

          Timeline

          • With the help of the interactive timeline, changes can now be visually traced very quickly.

           

          Versioning (included in the Upgrade)

          • Methods can now be saved as a new version after changes.
          • Goals always refer to a specific version of a method.
          • The version of a method that was used is documented for each analysis.

           

          Audit trail (included in the Upgrade)

          • A detailed, chronological log of all changes can now be displayed in the sidebar.

           

          Batch analysis (included in the Upgrade)

          • This function allows the simultaneous analysis of several samples in one run.
          • For a Batch Analysis, sample trays (e.g. microtitre plates) of any size can be configured and the samples can be placed on them.
          • Values can be copied or pasted into sample trays for easy further processing in Excel.

           

          HL7 FHIR

           

          Bug fixes and improvements:

          Simply set up

          • Users can now change their password and maintain a profile picture.
          • Users have the option to stay logged in on a device at all times.

          Individually customise

          • In the table view, a filter setting can be saved as a “custom view” and used at any time.
          • User-defined fields have been integrated into the properties tab and can be used flexibly through “Manage form”.

          Effectively organise

          • In the notifications, the function “Mark all as read” now ensures a maximum overview.
          • A file such as the following can be added to orders as additional information. findings or certificate of analysis can be uploaded.

          Flexibly use

          • Numerous optimisations in the mobile area improve the usability, especially on smaller devices such as smartphones and tablets.