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Lab Work

Use the Lab Work configuration screen to model the workflows, protocols, and master steps used in the lab on the Lab Work configuration screen.

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Lab Work Overview

To access the Lab Work configuration screen, the Configuration:update permission is required. Without this permission, the Lab Work tab is not visible.

By default, only the administrator role has the Configuration:update permission. For more on user roles and permissions, see User Roles and Configured Role-Based Permissions.

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To view and configure lab work components:

  1. On the main menu, select Configuration.

  2. Select the Lab Work tab.

    The main navigation panel lists the , , configured in Clarity LIMS. From here, complete the following actions as needed:

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Best Practice for Lab Work Configuration

The best practice method for creating and configuring lab work components in Clarity LIMS is as follows.

  1. Create and configure master steps.

  2. Create and configure protocols.

  3. Create and configure steps, adding them to the appropriate protocols, and using the master steps Create and configure workflows, adding required protocols.

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While these are the recommended steps, you can create protocols first, or create workflows and add the protocols later. However, before creating a step, you must select the protocol in which to add the step, and the master step on which to base its configuration.

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Lab Work, Custom Fields and Automations Configuration Restrictions

When working with workflows, protocols, steps, and master steps, there are some restrictions you should be aware of. These restrictions are summarized below, and are also described in the articles that discuss the configuration details of each component.

The following section also lists the restrictions associated with custom fields and automations.

  • Custom fields are configured on the Custom Fields configuration screen. Refer to .

  • Step automations are configured on the Automations configuration screen. Refer to .

chevron-rightWorkflow and Protocol Restrictionshashtag
  • Empty protocols cannot be added to a workflow. The protocol must include steps.

  • Empty workflows cannot be activated. However, empty workflows can be saved in the pending state.

chevron-rightStep Restrictionshashtag
  • Steps in a protocol cannot be added, reordered, or deleted in an active or archived workflow.

  • Settings saved as part of the master step configuration cannot be configured at step level. On the step configuration form, these settings display with a Locked icon.

chevron-rightMaster Step Restrictionshashtag
  • A master step cannot be deleted if it is used to generate a step that is in an active or archived workflow.

  • A master step cannot be deleted if it has already been used to create one or more steps. First, delete the step, and then delete the master step. In this case, the Delete button is disabled.

chevron-rightCustom Field Restrictionshashtag
  • A master step field cannot be deleted if it has been assigned a value, or is in use in a step. If a step derived from the master step with which the field is associated has been started.

  • A custom field no longer displays if deleted in the LIMS interface; however, its information is retained in the database for historical purposes.

chevron-rightStep Automation Restrictionshashtag
  • Multiple automations with the same name cannot be enabled on a master step, even if the automations are configured differently.

  • Two automations can have the same name as long as they are unique in some other way. For example:

View the relationships between workflows, protocols, steps, and master steps.
  • View workflow, protocol, step, and master step configuration in the form beneath the navigation panel.

  • See the status of workflows (pending, active, or archived).

  • Add and modify workflows, protocols, steps, and master steps.

  • Select a workflow, protocol, step, or master step to view related configuration items in the other lists.

    Selecting a protocol highlights the following items:

    • All workflows that include the selected protocol are highlighted.

    • All steps in the selected protocol are highlighted.

    • All master steps from which the steps are derived are highlighted.

    Selecting a workflow highlights the following items:

    • All protocols in the workflow, which display sequentially at the top of the Protocols list.

    • All steps in those highlighted protocols.

    • All master steps from which the highlighted steps are derived.

    Zoom out in the browser to maximize the number of items visible in the lists. Drag the lower edge of the panel to see more list items.

  • Create and configure workflows, adding required protocols.

    Modify a workflow only while it remains in the pending state. You cannot rename a protocol included in an active or archived workflow.

  • Delete a workflow only while the workflow remains in the pending state. You cannot delete active or archived workflows.

  • A protocol cannot be removed from an active or archived workflow.

  • A protocol cannot be deleted from an active or archived workflow.

  • A protocol cannot be added to an active or archived workflow.

  • Protocols cannot be reordered within an active or archived workflow.

  • The master step can be changed, providing the new master step is of the same step type. The list of master steps is filtered to show valid options.

  • If you remove configured settings from a master step, the settings on the derived steps revert to their default values unless doing so would leave the step in an unworkable state. For example, the last container from a step cannot be removed. Exceptions to this 'revert to default' rule are noted where applicable.

  • After a step type has been chosen and saved as part of a master step configuration, it cannot be change.

    If the field name specified is the same as a field that has been deleted, the new field is created and the conflicting field name is renamed in the database.

  • A custom field cannot be deleted on a global field object or master step with the same name as an existing field on that object/master step.

    For example, if a global field is created called 'Description' on the Account object, another global field cannot be created called 'Description' on the Account object. However, a 'Description' field on the Project object can be created.

  • channel name is unique, or

  • command line is unique, or

  • run-program-per-eventvalues (available in the API only) are unique

  • NOTE: Attached files and associated master steps are ignored in these comparisons.

    Workflows
    Protocols
    Steps and Master Steps
    Custom Fields
    Automations

    Workflows

    In Clarity LIMS, a workflow is a set of protocols arranged in a sequence that corresponds to the way in which work is performed in the lab. This page explain how to create and configure your workflow.

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    Configure Workflows

    After protocols are created and configured, add them to workflows that represent how samples move through your lab.

    In Clarity LIMS, use the Lab Work configuration screen to view, add, and configure the workflows used in the lab. For an overview of this screen, see Lab Work Overview.

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    To access the Lab Work tab and configure workflows, the Configuration:update permission is required. By default, only the Administrator role has this permission. For details, see and .

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    View Workflows

    The Lab Work screen provides an at-a-glance view of all workflows configured in the LIMS, along with the protocols and steps they contain. You can quickly see which workflows are active, which are archived, and which do not yet have protocols assigned to them.

    To view workflow details:

    1. On the main menu, select Configuration.

    2. Select the Lab Work tab.

    3. In the Workflows list, select a workflow to highlight it.

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    Workflow Status

    The status of a workflow may be Pending, Active, or Archived. The following table provides an overview of each status setting and describes the implications of each.

    Status
    What It Means in the Lab
    Configuration Implications

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    Add Workflows

    The following section shows how to add a workflow to the LIMS and add protocols to it. When configuring workflows, keep the following in mind:

    • You are not required to add protocols immediately. If you prefer, you can create empty Pending workflows and assign protocols to them later.

    • You can only activate a Pending workflow if it contains at least one protocol.

    • When adding protocols to a workflow, reordering protocols within a workflow, or removing protocols from a workflow, your changes are autosaved. You do not have to select Save after every modification.

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    Add a new workflow

    1. On the Lab Work configuration screen, in the upper-right corner of the Workflow list, select Add.

    2. Below the main navigation panel, the workflow configuration form displays.

    3. To begin, type a name for your new workflow.

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    Add protocols to a workflow

    1. In the Workflow list, select the workflow.

    2. In the Protocol list, locate the first protocol to include and select Add.

      The protocol is added to the workflow and displays at the top of the Protocol list. The 1 indicates that this is the first protocol in the workflow.

    3. Repeat step 2 until you have added all required protocols to the workflow.

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    Modify and Activate Pending workflow

    1. On the Lab Work configuration screen, in the Workflow list, select the Pending workflow to modify or activate.

    2. Make your changes and select Save to save the workflow as a Pending workflow.

      -or-

      Select Activate to change the workflow status to Active and begin using the workflow.

    When modifying or activating workflows, keep the following in mind:

    • You cannot activate empty workflows.

    • You can only modify a workflow while it remains in the Pending state. That is:

      • You cannot add a protocol to an Active or Archived workflow.

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    Archive and Reactivate Workflows

    While you cannot delete workflows after they have been activated, you can archive them. This makes them temporarily unavailable for use in the lab. You can reactivate an Archived workflow at any time.

    To archive a workflow:

    1. On the Lab Work configuration screen, in the Workflow list, select the Active workflow to archive.

    2. In the Workflow Settings area, select Archive. Select Save.

    To reactivate an archived workflow:

    1. On the Lab Work configuration screen, in the Workflow list, select the Archived workflow to reactivate.

    2. In the Workflow Settings area, select Activate. Select Save.

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    Delete Workflows

    1. On the Lab Work configuration screen, in the Workflow list, select the pending workflow to delete.

    2. On the workflow configuration form, select Delete.

    3. Confirm the workflow deletion:

    You can only delete a workflow while the workflow remains in the Pending state. You cannot delete Active or Archived workflows.

    Derived Sample Naming Convention Tokens

    By default, the name of the outputs generated by a step in the LIMS follows the naming convention of the inputs to the step.

    When configuring a master step, you can use tokens to configure the naming convention so that it resolves to other unique attributes of the output. These tokens function as placeholders that are replaced with actual values at runtime. For example, for the Standard step type, the default naming convention resolves to the value of the {InputItemName} token (shown below).

    The Tokens list provides a list of tokens you can use. You can copy and paste these directly into the Naming Convention text box.

    • If using multiple tokens, add a space between each entry.

    The Protocols list updates to show all protocols included in the workflow. These are highlighted and displayed sequentially at the top of the list. A dashed line separates these workflow protocols from the comprehensive list of all protocols in the system.

  • The Steps list updates, highlighting the steps included in the highlighted protocols.

  • The Master Steps list updates, highlighting the master steps on which the highlighted steps are based.

    Note: You can also select a protocol, step, or master step to view the related workflows.

  • Below the main navigation panel, review the workflow configuration form. This displays the name of the workflow and its status.

  • You cannot add empty protocols to a workflow. The protocol must include steps.
    Select Save.

    The workflow is saved in a Pending state, and displays in the Workflow list of the main navigation panel.

    • To remove a protocol from the workflow, select its Remove button.

    • Drag and drop to reorder protocols within the workflow.

      • To drag and drop on a mobile or touch-screen device, touch and hold the item you wish to drag. After a moment, the item appears to lift off the page and its color changes to white. You can then drag the item and drop it into its new position.

    • To view or modify a protocol, select the protocol to display its configuration form below the main navigation pane.

  • You can now save the workflow as a Pending workflow.

    - or -

    Select Activate to use this workflow immediately.

    NOTE: After you activate a workflow, you cannot modify or delete it.

  • You cannot remove a protocol from an Active or Archived workflow.
  • You cannot rename or reorder protocols in an Active or Archived workflow.

  • You cannot delete protocols included in Active or Archived workflows.

  • To proceed with the deletion, select Delete.

  • To cancel the deletion, select Cancel.

  • Active

    • These workflows are currently in use - or available for use - in the system.

    • Samples can be assigned to these workflows so that lab scientists can work on them in Lab View.

    • Active workflow cannot be modified or deleted.

    • Protocols in an Active workflow cannot be reordered.

    • Protocols in an Active workflow can be modified or deleted, and modify their steps.

    • Active workflow can be made unavailable for use by changing its status to Archived. Samples that are currently queued or in progress for the workflow can complete it, but new samples cannot be added.

    • When a workflow in Active state is saved, it can only transition to the Archived state.

    Pending

    • These workflows have not yet been activated.

    • These workflows are not available for use in the lab.

    • These workflows do not display in Lab View.

    • Samples cannot be added to these workflows from the Projects and Samples screen.

    • Pending workflows can be modified, for example, by renaming them, or by adding, modifying, or removing, modifying protocols.

    • Pending workflows can be activated.

    Archived

    • These workflows are currently not in use in the system.

    • These workflows do not display in Lab View.

    • Samples cannot be added to these workflows from the Projects and Samples screen.

    • Samples that are currently queued or in progress for an Archived workflow can complete it.

    • After a workflow is saved in Archived state, it can only transition to the Active state.

    • An Archived workflow cannot be modified or deleted.

    • In an Archived workflow, protocols cannot be reordered.

    User Roles
    Configured Role-Based Permissions

    Below the Naming Convention field, you will see a preview of how the token(s) will resolve.

  • Note that some runtime-specific items, such as dates and times, will not preview exactly as they will resolve at runtime.

  • NOTE:

    • Output names are limited to 100 characters. If a name exceeds this limit, the LIMS automatically removes characters from the middle of the name.

    • To pad a resolved value, add a colon (:) and a whole number to indicate the desired number of digits. For example, if {OutputItemNumber} resolves to 23, {OutputItemNumber:4} will resolve to 0023.

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    Simple Tokens

    You can use simple tokens that will resolve to system-specified results, such as container location and LIMS ID of an output. These tokens are replaced with the appropriate value of the specified item at runtime. Tokens are case sensitive.

    {InputItemName}

    The name of the input used to generate the output.

    {InputItemNameNoSpaces}

    The name of the input used to generate the output, but with spaces removed.

    {InputWellLocation}

    The location or name of the well where the input resides.

    To get a sub-string of the location or name of the well, add a colon (:), and one or two whole numbers to indicate the start index (zero-based, i.e. starts with 0. Inclusive) and end index (Exclusive). {InputWellLocation:<startIndex>,<endIndex>}

    Example

    If {InputWellLocation} has the value of A:3, the following examples show the derived values with the new format:

    • Lane {InputWellLocation} -> Lane A:3

    • Lane {InputWellLocation:0,1} -> Lane A

    • Lane {InputWellLocation:1,3} -> Lane :3

    • Lane {InputWellLocation:1} -> Lane :3

    {InputContainerIdentifier}

    The container identifier in which the input resides.

    {InputItemNumber}

    The number of the input used to generate the output, such as 7 of 20. You can pad the resolved value to a certain number of digits, and the LIMS will prefix the number with zeros. See note above.

    {InputItemTotal}

    The total number of inputs used to generate the outputs. You can pad the resolved value to a certain number of digits, and the LIMS will prefix the number with zeros. See note above.

    {OutputItemLIMSID}

    The LIMS ID of the output.

    {OutputItemNumber}

    The current output's absolute position within the order of all outputs, such as 9 of 40. You can pad the resolved value to a certain number of digits, and the LIMS will prefix the number with zeros. See note above.

    {OutputItemTotal}

    The total number of outputs generated. You can pad the resolved value to a certain number of digits, and the LIMS will prefix the number with zeros. See note above.

    {OutputItemSubsetNumber}

    The current output's relative position within its relative set, such as 1 of 2. You can pad the resolved value to a certain number of digits, and the LIMS will prefix the number with zeros. See note above.

    {OutputItemSubsetTotal}

    The fixed count of relative outputs per input. You can pad the resolved value to a certain number of digits, and the LIMS will prefix the number with zeros. See note above.

    {AppliedReagentLabels}

    The type of reagent label applied to the input.

    {SubmittedSampleName}

    The name of the sample’s related submitted sample - the original parent sample that was submitted to the LIMS.

    {ProjectName}

    The name of the project that contains the inputs to the step.

    {ProcessLIMSID}

    The LIMS ID of the step that created the outputs.

    {ProcessTechnicianFullName}

    The name of the lab scientist who runs the step.

    {ProcessTechnicianFirstName}

    The first name of the lab scientist who runs the step.

    {ProcessTechnicianLastName}

    The last name of the lab scientist who runs the step.

    {ProcessTechnicianInitials}

    The initials of the lab scientist who runs the step.

    {DATE:MMM d, yyyy}

    The date the step was run, according to the computer's clock.

    {LIST:a,b,c}

    With this variable, you can specify a comma-delimited list of words that will be used when generating output names. Clarity LIMS will cycle through the words from left to right, applying one word to each output name. When the last word has been used and there are further outputs that require names, Clarity LIMS will restart at the beginning of the list.

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    Complex Tokens

    Complex tokens provide further flexibility with the use of parameters.

    • You can combine any alpha-numeric text with simple and complex tokens for highly specialized and unique output names.

    • When using complex tokens, you must specify parameters that will be used when the token is resolved.

    • You can only use one LIST and one DATE token per output string, but you can use any combination of parameters within those tokens.

    • With the DATE token, if you would like to include a word between parameters, enclose the word in single quotes (‘x‘).

    • Times and dates resolve to the time and date the process was run, according to the computer's clock.

    • Tokens and parameters are case sensitive.

    Token
    Resolves to
    Usage
    Example

    a

    AM/PM marker

    The system returns the marker in the same format, regardless of how many times the token is repeated.

    If runtime is in the afternoon:

    a resolves to PM

    H

    Hour in day

    (24-hour clock)

    The number of times you repeat the token determines the minimum number of digits returned, with the system padding the value with zeros if necessary.

    If runtime is 11 PM:

    H resolves to 23

    HHH resolves to 023

    h

    Hour in AM/PM

    (12-hour clock)

    The number of times you repeat the token determines the minimum number of digits returned, with the system padding the value with zeros if necessary.

    Steps and Master Steps

    Steps & Master Steps section of the LIMS Documentation explain how to create and configure steps and master steps in the LIMS.

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    Overview of Steps and Master Steps

    In Clarity LIMS, steps and master steps are techniques or procedures that are performed on a sample. They are the building blocks of the lab work.

    Think of master steps as starting points to create the individual steps that are run in the lab.

    Protocols

    In Clarity LIMS, a protocol is a set of steps that must be performed in a specific sequence, as part of a lab's workflow. This section explain how to create and configure your lab protocols.

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    Configure Protocols

    Clarity LIMS includes preconfigured protocols, each containing a series of steps through which a sample must pass. You can create custom protocols, adding steps that represent the steps that are run in your lab. You can then add the protocols to workflows so that lab users can work with them in Lab View.

    Use the Lab Work configuration screen to view, add, and configure the protocols used in the lab. For an overview of this screen, see .

    The master step <--> step relationship is one to many:
    • Each step is derived from a master step.

    • A master step may be used as the foundation for multiple steps.

  • All steps are derived from a master step and inherit any properties configured on the master step.

  • If you configure properties at the step level, those properties only apply to that particular step.

  • To understand how properties set on the master step propagate down to the step level, seeRules for Propagation of Master Step Properties.

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    To access the Lab Work tab and configure workflows, protocols, steps, and master steps, the Configuration:update permission is required. By default, only the Administrator role has this permission. For details, see User Roles and Configured Role-Based Permissions.

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    Rules for Propagation of Master Step Properties

    In Clarity LIMS, all steps are derived from a master step and inherit any properties configured on the master step.

    The rules for how properties set on the master step propagate down to the step level apply to all properties. Those configured on the Master Step Settings configuration form and those configured on the Step Milestones.

    • By default, master step properties are not set (values are null). Therefore, by default, the property settings do not propagate down to the derived steps. This means that you can set, or not set, the property freely at the step level.

    • If you set a property on the master step, that property is locked (a Locked icon displays) at the step level, and cannot be modified.

    In some situations, you can add to or reorder a locked property at the step level, but you can never remove the property. For example, on the Step Settings form:

    • You can add and reorder the column headers that display in the Sample table, even if some of those column headers are set on the master step.

    • You cannot remove column headers that are set on the master step.

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    Master Step Property Propagation Rules

    When you add a master step property setting, the setting is also added to all steps derived from that master step.

    When you update a master step property setting, the setting is also updated on all steps derived from that master step. This overrides any previous values that had been applied at the Protocol Step level.

    When you remove a master step property setting, the setting is also removed from all steps derived from that master step. There are a few exceptions to this rule where appropriate defaults must be applied to keep the step in a valid, workable state.

    The following table summarizes what happens at the step level when a property setting is removed from the master step.

    Property
    Configured on Form
    What Happens at Step Level

    Reagent kits

    Master Step/Step Settings

    Removed. No defaults set.

    Instrument types

    Master Step/Step Settings

    Removed. No defaults set.

    Automation trigger

    Master Step/Step Settings

    Reverts to default - Button

    (manually triggered)

    Sample grouping

    Queue, Ice Bucket, Placement milestones

    For details on configuring step and master step property settings, see Add and Configure Master Steps and Steps.

    To configure each milestone, milestone, see Step Milestones.

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    About Step Types and Outputs

    In Clarity LIMS, steps are categorized by type, where each type is based on the requirements and goals of the step, and the outputs generated by the step. Some step types have unique interfaces and properties designed to perform specific tasks, such as adding reagent labels or pooling samples.

    The step type is set on the Master Step Settings configuration form, and all steps inherit the step type of the master step on which they are based. (To understand the relationship between master steps and steps, see Steps and Master Steps.)

    The step type is also displayed on the Step Settings configuration form, but as a read-only property.

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    Step Inputs and Outputs

    All step types must have a submitted sample or derived sample input, and may generate either derived sample outputs, measurement outputs, or no outputs.

    Keep in mind that only one output type is permitted. A step cannot generate both a derived sample and a measurement output. The type of step you choose determines which output generation options display. For example:

    • Selecting the Standard step type only displays settings for derived sample generation.

    • Selecting the Standard QC step type only displays settings for measurement generation.

    • Selecting the No Outputs step type only displays settings for no output generation.

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    Downstream Functionality

    The type of step you choose also enables or disables certain functionality downstream. For example:

    • Selecting the Pooling step type displays the Pooling screen when the step is run, allowing the ability to create pools of samples. Choosing this step type allows you to configure the number of aliquots used to generate the pools.

    • Selecting the Add Labels step type displays the Add Labels screen when the step is run, allowing the ability to configure reagent label format options.

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    Rules and Constraints

    • When creating a master step, you must choose a step type.

    • When you have saved a master step configuration:

      • Step type cannot be changed.

      • The number of outputs generated can be adjusted, or switch from a fixed number to a variable number (Standard, Standard QC, Add Labels, Pooling, Analysis step types).

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    Step Types

    The following step types are available in Clarity LIMS:

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    Standard

    Standard steps can have a fixed or variable ratio of samples entering the step to derived samples being generated from the step. After saving, you can switch between fixed and variable.

    Default step output: By default, this step type generates one derived sample for every sample tracked in the step.

    Setting
    Options for This Step Type
    Default
    Description

    Derived sample generation

    Fixed – For every sample that enters the step, a fixed number of derived samples are generated.

    Fixed value set to 1, configurable

    The number of derived samples generated is fixed. The number cannot be changed when running the step.

    Variable – For every sample that enters the step, a variable number of derived samples are generated at run time.

    The number of derived samples generated can be set. This option displays on the Ice Bucket screen.

    Downstream functionality: Choosing this step type disables the Pooling and Add Labels screens. Derived sample outputs require placement.

    Example steps of this type: Library Normalization, Fragment DNA

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    Standard QC

    Standard QC steps may be included in QC protocols, and may also be included as inline QC steps in other protocol types.

    Standard QC steps generate sample measurements, which can have a Fixed or Variable ratio of samples entering the step to measurements being generated.

    Default step output: By default, this step type generates one measurement for every sample tracked in the step.

    Setting
    Options for This Step Type
    Default
    Description

    Measurement generation

    Fixed – For every sample that enters the step, a fixed number of derived samples are generated.

    Fixed value set to 1, configurable

    The number of derived samples generated is fixed. The number cannot be changed when running the step.

    Variable – For every sample that enters the step, a variable number of measurements are generated at run time.

    The number of derived samples generated can be set. This option displays on the Ice Bucket screen.

    Downstream functionality: Choosing this step type disables the Pooling and Add Labels screens. You may configure a QC step to display or not display the Placement screen.

    Example steps of this type: Bioanalyzer QC, NanoDrop QC, Qubit QC

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    No Outputs

    The No Outputs step type does not generate any outputs. You can use this step type for sorting steps or for aggregate QC steps.

    Default step output: This step type does not generate any outputs. (This is not configurable.)

    QC aggregation is the final step in a QC protocol. This step aggregates the data from the previous Standard QC steps to determine the overall quality of the samples. At the end of the step, samples either pass QC and proceed to the next protocol, or fail QC and are rerun or removed from the workflow.

    • At least one aggregate QC step is required in QC protocols.

    • At a minimum, one Standard QC step must be run before QC aggregation can occur.

    To use a No Outputs step type for QC aggregation, enable QC flags on the Record Details milestone. See .

    Setting
    Options for This Step Type
    Default
    Description

    Measurement generation

    None - For every sample that enters the step, 0 measurements are generated.

    None (not configurable)

    No measurements are generated and cannot be change this at run time.

    Downstream functionality: Choosing this step type disables the Pooling, Placement, and Add Labels screens.

    Example steps of this type: Aggregate QC (DNA), Aggregate QC (RNA), Aggregate QC (Library Validation)

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    Add Labels

    This step type is used to apply a reagent label (or molecular barcode) to each sample entering the step. It may be run on multiple tubes and on multiple plates. Running an Add Labels step allows for a permanent reagent label to be added to each sample. The label data appears while running the step, in a new column in the Sample Data table on the Record Details screen.

    Add Labels steps generate derived samples, which can have a Fixed or Variable ratio of samples entering the step to derived samples being generated.

    Default step output: By default, this step type generates one labeled derived sample for every sample that enters the step.

    Setting
    Options for This Step Type
    Default
    Description

    Derived sample generation

    Fixed– For every sample that enters the step, a fixed number of labeled derived samples is generated.

    Fixed value set to 1, configurable

    The number of derived samples generated is fixed. The number cannot be changed when running the step.

    Variable– For every sample that enters the step, a variable number of labeled derived samples is generated at run time.

    The number of derived samples generated can be set. This option displays on the Ice Bucket screen.

    Downstream functionality: Choosing this step type disables the Pooling screen and enables the Add Labels screen.

    Example steps of this type: Add Multiple Reagents, Adenylate Ends and Ligate Adapters, PCR Amplification.

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    Pooling

    This step type allows for multiple samples to be pooled into a single sample/container for sequencing efficiency. The number of pools is determined while running the step. Samples typically have a label, which is used to differentiate each sample at the demultiplexing stage.

    Pooling steps generate pools that are created from a Fixed or Variable number of aliquots.

    Default step output: By default, for every sample that enters the step, one aliquot is used to generate pools.

    Setting
    Options for This Step Type
    Default
    Description

    Aliquot generation

    Fixed – For every sample that enters the step, a fixed number of aliquots is used to generate pools.

    Fixed value set to 1, not configurable

    The number of aliquots used to generate pools is fixed, and displays on the Pooling screen and cannot change this value when running the step.

    Variable – For every sample that enters the step, a variable number of aliquots is used to generate pools at run time.

    The number of aliquots used to generate pools can be set. This option displays on the Ice Bucket screen.

    Downstream functionality: Choosing this step type disables the Add Labels screen and enables the Pooling screen.

    • The number of pools is determined on the Pooling screen.

    • By default, users are prevented from pooling samples without labels or with identical labels. You can modify this on the Pooling Settings configuration screen.

    Example steps of this type: Pool Samples

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    Analysis

    Analysis steps allow data to be manipulated by scripts, for example, they may be used to trigger secondary analysis or import data post analysis.

    Analysis steps behave similarly to Standard QC steps and generate sample measurements. They can have a Fixed or Variable ratio of samples entering the step to measurements being generated.

    Default step output: By default, this step type generates one measurement for every sample that enters the step.

    Setting
    Options for This Step Type
    Default
    Description

    Measurement generation

    Fixed– For every sample that enters the step, a fixed number of measurements are generated.

    Fixed value set to 1, configurable

    The number of measurements generated by the step is fixed. and cannot be changed this when running the step.

    Variable– For every sample that enters the step, a variable number of measurements are generated at run time.

    The number of measurements generated can be set. This option displays on the Ice Bucket screen.

    Downstream functionality: Choosing this step type disables the Pooling, Placement, and Add Labels screens.

    Example steps of this type: Sample History Report, Process Summary Report

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    Demultiplexing

    This is essentially an Analysis step that deals specifically with labeled samples. It separates pools of samples based on the label assigned to those samples.

    Demultiplexing steps have a Fixed ratio of samples entering the step to measurements being generated.

    Default step output: By default, this step type generates one measurement for every sample that enters the step.

    Setting
    Options for This Step Type
    Default
    Description

    Measurement generation

    Fixed– For every sample that enters the step, a fixed number of measurements are generated.

    Fixed value set to 1, not configurable

    The number of measurements generated by the step is fixed. This is not configurable and cannot be change it when running the step.

    Downstream functionality: Because samples are placed automatically by a script configured on the step, choosing this step type disables the Placement screen. Choosing this step type also disables the Pooling and Add Labels screens.

    Example steps of this type: BCL Conversion and Demultiplexing.

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    Add and Configure Master Steps and Steps

    Clarity LIMS includes preconfigured steps and master steps designed to support established lab processes. You can create additional steps and master steps to represent the procedures that are specific to your lab. There are two approaches:

    • Create steps based on the preconfigured master steps. The steps you create inherit the properties of the configured master steps, and you can then set additional properties on the steps themselves.

    • Create master steps, and then use them as the foundations on which to create your steps.

    You can add the steps to protocols and workflows so that lab scientists can work with them in Lab View.

    To access the Lab Work tab and configure steps and master steps, the Configuration:update permission is required. By default, only the Administrator role has this permission. For details, see User Roles and Configured Role-Based Permissions.

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    View Master Steps and Steps

    The Lab Work screen provides an at-a-glance view of all steps and master steps configured in the LIMS, along with the protocols and workflows in which they are included.

    1. On the main menu, select Configuration.

    2. On the LIMS configuration screen, select the Lab Work tab.

      The Workflow, Protocol, Step, and Master Step navigation panel displays. This lists the workflows, protocols, steps, and master steps configured in the LIMS.

    3. In the Master Steps list, select a master step to highlight it:

      • The Steps list updates, highlighting the steps derived from the selected master step.

      If multiple steps are derived from the same master step, the Master Steps list includes duplicate rows, each mapping to a different step, and each representing the same master step. All of these rows are highlighted.

      • The Protocols list updates, highlighting all the protocols that contain the highlighted steps.

      • The Workflows list updates, highlighting all workflows that include the highlighted protocols.

    4. In the Steps list, select a step to highlight it: The Master Steps list updates, highlighting the master step on which the selected step is based. If multiple steps are derived from the same master step, the Master Steps list includes duplicate rows, each mapping to a different step, and each representing the same master step. All of these rows are highlighted.

      • The Protocols list updates, highlighting the protocol that contains the selected step.

      • The Workflows list updates, highlighting all of the workflows that include the highlighted protocols.

    5. Select these tabs to switch between the forms and see which settings are configured on the step and which are configured on the underlying master step.

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    Master Step and Step Configuration Settings

    Table 1 shows which settings must be configured on the master step and which may be configured on the master step or on the step.

    Settings configured on the master step are locked at the step level. On the step configuration form, these settings display with a Locked icon.

    Table 1: Master Step and Step Settings

    Setting
    Configured on
    Notes

    Step type

    Master step

    Output generation

    Master step

    Output naming convention

    Master step

    Automation

    • Automations are enabled on the master step

    • Automations triggers may be set on master step or step

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    Add a Master Step

    1. On the Lab Work configuration screen, in the upper-right corner of the Master Steps list, select Add.

    2. Below the main navigation panel, the master step configuration form displays.

    3. To begin, type a name for your new master step.

    4. Configure the settings for this master step - see , below.

    5. Select Save to save your master step configuration.

    When adding a master step, keep the following in mind:

    • Each step is created from a master step. You can create multiple steps from the same master step.

    • Any settings you configure on the master step are inherited by all steps derived from that master step.

    To understand how properties set on the master step propagate down to the step level, see Rules for Propagation of Master Step Properties.

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    Configure a Master Step

    The following sections describe the settings available when configuring a master step. Note the following:

    • Any settings saved as part of the master step configuration cannot be configured at step level. On the step configuration form, these settings display with a Locked icon.

    • Some settings may be configured at the step level, as indicated in Table 1.

    • The master step configuration form does not show the default setting values (this includes toggle switches).

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    Step Type

    Step types are configured on master steps.

    Steps are categorized by step type, where each type is based on the requirements and goals of the step, and the output generated by the step (derived samples, measurements, or aliquots).

    The step type is set on the master step, and all steps inherit the step type of the master step on which they are based. After you have chosen a step type and have saved it as part of a master step configuration, you cannot change it.

    • If you are not sure which step type to choose, review About Step Types and Outputs.

    • To understand the relationship between master steps and steps, see Steps and Master Steps.

    The step type you choose determines which step milestones are available for configuration.

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    Output Generation

    Configured on master step.

    A step may generate a derived sample output, a measurement output, an aliquot output, or no output.

    The type of step you choose determines which output generation options are available. Usually, you may choose to keep the default setting or modify the output generation configuration.

    For details on the output generation options available for each step type, see About Step Types and Outputs.

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    Output Naming Convention

    Configured on master step.

    By default, the name of the outputs generated by a step follows the naming pattern of the inputs to the step.

    You can use tokens to configure the naming convention so that it resolves to other unique attributes of the output. These tokens function as placeholders that are replaced with actual values at run time. For example, for the Standard step type, the default naming convention resolves to the value of the {InputItemName} token.

    The following table lists the default naming conventions for each of the step types.

    Table 2: Default Naming Conventions for Step Types

    Step type
    Default Naming Convention Token
    Naming Convention Preview

    Standard

    {InputItemName}

    Input Sample

    Standard QC

    {InputItemName}

    Input Sample

    Aggregate QC

    None - Aggregate QC steps do not produce outputs.

    Not applicable

    Add Labels

    {InputItemName}-{AppliedReagentLabels}

    The Tokens list provides a list of tokens you can use to configure the naming convention. For descriptions and examples, see Derived Sample Naming Convention Tokens.

    To add a token:

    1. Copy the token you want to use from the Tokens list and paste it into the Naming Convention field. If using multiple tokens, add a space between each entry.

    2. Below the Naming Convention field, you can see a preview of how one or more tokens resolve. Some runtime-specific items, such as dates and times, do not preview exactly as they resolve at run time.

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    Automation

    Automations are enabled on master step. Automation triggers may be set on master step or step.

    A master step can be configured to update sample fields, assign QC flags, generate files, and submit files and command-line parameters to third-party programs, using automations and the Rapid Scripting API.

    When you have configured an automation, you can enable it on one or more master steps and set its trigger location and style.

    You can enable automations on master steps in two configuration areas of the LIMS:

    • On the Automations tab, when adding/configuring an automation.

    • On the master step configuration form.

    After it is enabled on a master step, the automation becomes available for use on all steps derived from that master step.

    You can set the trigger location and trigger style for an automation on the master step, or on the steps derived from that master step:

    • On the master step—In this case, all steps derived from the master step inherit the automation and the trigger settings.

    • On the steps derived from the master step—In this case, all steps inherit the automation from the master step, but you can configure different trigger settings for each step, if necessary.

    To enable an automation on a master step, you must have first configured the automation on the Automation tab. For details, see .

    To enable an automation on a master step:

    1. In the Automation section, click the Automation configuration screen link. The Automation configuration screen opens, with the Step Automation tab active.

    2. In the Automation Use section, select inside the Enable on the Master Steps field and select the master step on which to enable the automation. (If you make a mistake, select the X button to remove a master step from the field.)

    3. Select Save.

    4. Return to the master step configuration form. The automations are listed alphanumerically by name.

    To set an automation trigger on a master step (or step):

    1. In the Trigger Location drop-down list, select the stage of the step at which to enable the automation.

      • The list displays all available stages of the step from which the automation can be triggered.

      • Only valid options for the step are displayed, for example, the Pooling option only displays on Pooling steps, the Step Setup option only displays for steps on which the Step Setup screen is enabled.

      • To ensure sequence of execution, only one automation can be associated with each trigger location.

    2. In the Trigger Style drop-down list, select how to initiate the automation. For example, automatically on entry to or exit from the screen or manually when a button is selected on the screen.

      The trigger location and style are saved with the automation configuration.

    3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 to configure triggers for each automation added.

    4. Save the automation configuration.

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    Instrument Types

    Configured on master step or step.

    You can specify the instrument/equipment types that may be used in a step. You can do this on the master step or at the step level. At run time, on the Record Details screen, the lab scientist selects from a list of instruments/equipment of that type.

    To enable an instrument/equipment type on a master step or step, you must have first added the instrument type to the system. See .

    Note also that instrument type/master step configuration is bidirectional - when adding an instrument type, you can select master steps to associate with that instrument type.

    To enable an instrument type on a master step (or step):

    1. In the Instrument Types section, select Add.

    2. At the right of the screen, a list of instrument/equipment types displays. Select one or more instrument/equipment types and select the checkmark button.

      The instrument/equipment types are added to the master step/step configuration.

      • If necessary, you can remove an instrument type by clicking the X button.

      • Step configuration form only: You can reorder instrument types by dragging and dropping them. The order is reflected on the step Record Details screen, in the Instrument selection drop-down list.

    3. Save the master step/step.

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    Reagent Kits

    Configured on master step or step.

    You can specify the reagent kits that may be used in a step. You can do this on the master step or at the step level.

    Configuring reagent kits on the step/master step enables reagent lot tracking on the Record Details screen at run time.

    To enable a reagent kit on a master step or step, you must have first added the reagent kit to the system. See .

    Note also that reagent kit/master step configuration is bidirectional—when adding a reagent kit, you can select master steps to associate with that kit.

    To enable a reagent kit on a master step (or step):

    1. In the Reagent Kits section, select Add.

    2. The reagent kits are added to the master step/step configuration.

      If necessary, you can remove a reagent kit by clicking the X button.

    3. Save the master step/step.

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    Control Types

    Configured on step.

    You can specify the control types that may be used in a step. This is done at the step level.

    Selected controls are then available to add to the Ice Bucket when running the step.

    To enable a control type on a step, you must have first added the control type to the system. For details, see .

    Note also that control type/step configuration is bidirectional—when adding a control type, you can select the steps to be associated with it.

    To enable a control type on a step:

    1. In the Control Types section, select Add.

    2. At the right of the screen, a list of control types displays. Select one or more control types and select the checkmark. The control types are added to the step configuration.

    3. Remove a control type by clicking the X button.

    4. Save the step.

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    Step Milestones

    Configured on master step or step.

    When running samples through steps in the LIMS, each screen displayed represents a specific stage, or 'milestone' of the step.

    Some screens display on all steps, while others only display on certain step types.

    For more on milestones, and instructions on configuring milestone settings, see Step Milestones.

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    Add a Step

    When adding steps to the LIMS, first select a protocol to include the new step, and a master step on which to base it. The new step inherits all settings configured on the master step.

    To add a new step:

    1. On the Lab Work configuration screen, in the Protocols list, select the protocol in which to add the new step.

    2. In the upper-right corner of the Steps list, select Add.

      Below the main navigation panel, the step configuration form displays.

    3. Type a name for the new step.

    4. In the adjacent Master Steps list, select the master step upon which to base the new step.

      If creating a step within a QC protocol, the Master Steps list only displays master steps that are Standard QC and Aggregate QC step types.

    5. Select Save (this button is not enabled until a master step is selected).

    6. In the Protocols list, select the protocol again.

    7. The step added displays at the top of the Steps list.

      • The '1' indicates that this is the first step in the protocol. (QC protocol steps are not numbered as they are typically not sequential.)

      • In the Master Steps list, the master step upon which the step is based is also highlighted.

    8. Repeat steps 1–5 to add more steps to the protocol.

      • To delete a step, select it and select Delete.

      • To reorder steps within the protocol, drag and drop them.

    9. Select Save.

      To drag and drop on a mobile or touch-screen device, touch and hold the item you wish to drag. After a moment, the item appears to lift off the page and its color changes to white. You can then drag the item and drop it into its new position.

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    Configure a Step

    On the step configuration form:

    • Any settings that were configured on the master step are locked. On the step configuration form, these settings display with a Locked icon.

    • You can configure settings that were not configured on the master step. These settings only apply to the step.

    • Settings not configured on the master step typically use the default value at the step level, unless those settings are configured on the step.

    If not locked on the master step, the following settings can be configured at the step level.

    • Automation triggers

    • Instrument types

    • Reagent kits

    • Control types

    • Step Milestones

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    Modify Master Steps and Steps

    1. In the Master Steps list, select the master step you would like to modify.

    2. Make your changes and select Save.

    When modifying master steps and steps, keep the following in mind:

    • You can change the master step on which a step is based, providing the new master step is of the same step type. The list of master steps is filtered to show valid options.

    • If you remove configured settings from a master step, those settings on the derived steps revert to their default values, except if this would leave the step in an unworkable state. For example, you cannot remove the last container from a step. Exceptions to this revert to default rule are noted where applicable.

    • If you rename a step, the Recent Activities list in Lab View continues to display the name of the step as it was when the step was run. This is because the step name in this case is derived from the activity record.

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    Delete Master Steps and Steps

    1. In the Master Steps list, select the master step to delete.

    2. On the master step configuration form, select Delete.

    When deleting master steps and steps, keep the following in mind:

    • You cannot delete a step if it is included in an active or archived workflow.

    • You cannot delete a master step if it is used to generate a step that is in an active or archived workflow.

    • You cannot delete a master step if it has already been used to create one or more steps. First delete the step, and then delete the master step.

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    To access the Lab Work tab and configure protocols, the Configuration:update permission is required. By default, only the Administrator role has this permission. For details, see User Roles and Configured Role-Based Permissions.

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    View Protocols

    1. On the main menu, select Configuration.

    2. Select the Lab Work tab.

      The Workflows, Protocols, Steps, and Master Steps navigation panel displays.

    3. In the Protocols list, select a protocol to highlight it:

      • The Workflows list updates, highlighting the workflows that contain the selected protocol.

      • The Steps list updates, highlighting the steps included in the selected protocol.

      • The Master Steps list updates, highlighting the master steps on which the highlighted steps are based.

    4. Below the main navigation panel, review the protocol configuration form.

      This displays the name of the protocol and its settings.

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    Protocol Settings

    The Protocol Settings area captures important information about the protocol—the date it was created, the date it was last modified, and other settings that determine how the protocol is used in the lab. The following table summarizes these settings.

    Setting
    Configuration options
    What It Means in the Lab

    QC Protocol?

    QC protocols comprise a series of QC steps.

    All steps share queue of samples.

    Samples do not move sequentially from step to step. Instead, they appear available/unavailable for a particular step based on configured filtering criteria.

    Non-QC protocols typically comprise a series of non-QC steps. However, you can include a QC step as part of a Non-QC protocol.

    Each step has its own queue of samples.

    Samples move sequentially through the steps, until they have completed all steps in the protocol.

    Protocol Type

    Sample Prep

    Library Prep

    Sequencing

    Data Analysis

    Sample Analysis

    Other

    See Non-QC protocol information in previous row.

    Show in Lab View?

    No

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    Add Protocols

    When adding and configuring protocols, note the following details:

    • When adding steps to a protocol, reordering steps, or removing steps from a protocol, changes are autosaved. You do not need to select Save after every modification.

    • When Configure Next Steps, you must select Save to save your changes.

    To add a protocol:

    1. On the Lab Work configuration screen, in the upper-right corner of the Protocols list, select Add.

      Below the main navigation panel, the protocol configuration form displays.

    2. To begin, type a name for the new protocol.

    3. Select the settings for this protocol (For details, see Protocol Settings):

      • Select whether this is a QC or Non-QC protocol.

      • Select the Protocol Type:

        • If you are adding a QC protocol, this automatically is set to QC.

    4. [Optional] To temporarily hide the protocol from Lab View, use the Show in Lab View? slider. Change the setting to No.

    5. Select Save. The new protocol displays at the bottom of the Protocols list. You can move it to a different position in the list by dragging and dropping.

      To drag and drop on a mobile or touch-screen device, touch and hold the item you wish to drag. After a moment, the item appears to lift off the page and its color changes to white. You can then drag the item and drop it into its new position.

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    You can also copy a protocol and then modify the copy for use in other workflows. See Copy Protocols.

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    Add Steps to Protocols

    This section provides an overview of the step creation process. For detailed information on steps and master steps, and step-by-step instructions for configuring them, see Add and Configure Master Steps and Steps.

    To add a step to a protocol:

    1. In the Protocols list, select the protocol.

    2. In the upper-right corner of the Steps list, select Add.

      Below the main navigation panel, the step configuration form displays.

    3. Type a name for the new step.

    4. In the adjacent Master Step list, select the master step upon which to base the new step.

    5. Select Save (this button is not enabled until you have selected a master step).

    6. In the Protocols list, select the protocol again.

      • The step you added displays at the top of the Step list.

      • If this is a non-QC protocol, a 1 is in front of the step name, indicating that this is the first step in the protocol.(QC steps are not numbered as they are typically not sequential.)

    7. Repeat steps 1–5 to add more steps to the protocol.

      • To delete a step, select it and select the Delete.

      • To reorder steps within the protocol, simply drag and drop them.

      To drag and drop on a mobile or touch-screen device, touch and hold the item you wish to drag. After a moment, the item appears to lift off the page and its color changes to white. You can then drag the item and drop it into its new position.

    8. Select Save.

    You can now configure the order in which the steps are run, and the method used to assign and run 'next steps.' See Configure Next Steps.

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    Configure Next Steps

    When configuring non-QC protocols, the protocol configuration form includes a Next Steps table. This allows you to configure the sequence in which steps are run in the protocol. This table does not display for QC protocols, because the steps in a QC protocol are typically not sequential.

    In the table:

    • Each row represents a numbered step in the protocol.

    • Each column represents a 'permitted next step' for each of the numbered steps.

    • The cells at each row/column intersection indicate which steps are potential permitted next steps for the step represented in that row.

      • If there is an icon in the cell (an X or a checkmark), the step represented by that column may be selected or deselected as a permitted next step.

      • Previous and current steps cannot be selected as permitted next steps, and are shown as nonselectable cells.

    • The bottom two rows determine whether the next steps are started and assigned manually or automatically. Manual is the default setting.

    To configure next steps

    1. In the Next Steps table, select a cell to select (or deselect) one or more permitted next steps.

    2. In the Start Next Step and Assign Next Step rows, select a cell to switch between Manual and Automatic.

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    To assign a next step automatically, you also need to configure an automation and add it to the step. For details, see .

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    Configure QC Filters

    When configuring QC protocols, the protocol configuration form includes a QC Filters section. This section lets you configure QC logic to make sure that only certain samples are queued for each QC step. Typically, QC protocols contain multiple nonsequential steps that culminate in a QC aggregation step.

    QC filters are composed of two drop-down lists.

    The first list refers to the QC flag assigned at run time:

    • Passed means that a pass QC flag was assigned to the sample at run time.

    • Failed means that a fail QC flag was assigned to the sample at run time.

    • Did not pass means that the sample did not run, or received a fail QC flag, at run time.

    • Did not fail means that the sample did not run, or received a pass QC flag, at run time.

    The second list refers to the master steps from which the steps are derived:

    • All master steps used in the protocol are included in the list. Together, these form a statement (for example, Failed Bioanalyzer).

    • Each statement may be followed by an'AND', which allows you to create an additive statement.

    • Statements are separated by an'OR', which allows you to create mutually exclusive statements.

    • Together, these AND/OR statements create the QC filter logic for a given step.

    For example:

    You may want the NanoDrop QC queue to show samples that have not passed NanoDrop QC (ie, they did not run, or received a fail QC flag), and that have passedBioanalyzer QC.

    • If the procedures dictate that all samples must have passed Bioanalyzer QC and NanoDrop QC, use an 'AND' statement to ensure samples are not queued for a QC aggregation step unless they have passed both of these steps.

    • If your lab procedures dictate that all samples must have passed Bioanalyzer QC or NanoDrop QC, use an 'OR' statement to ensure samples are not queued for QC aggregation unless they have passed one of these steps.

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    Modify Protocols

    You may want to rename a protocol, or add or reorder steps. Some modifications are only permitted if the protocol is not included in an active or archived workflow.

    NOTE: We recommend that you do not modify or delete the preconfigured protocols without first consulting the Clarity LIMS Support team.

    To modify a protocol:

    1. In the Protocols list, select the protocol.

    2. Make your changes and select Save.

    Note the following details:

    • You can rename protocols in pending, active, and archived workflows.

    • For non-QC protocols, you can modify the protocol type. For example, you can change a Sample Prep protocol to a Library Prep protocol.

    • You can choose to hide or show the protocol in Lab View.

    • You cannot change a QC protocol to a non-QC protocol, and vice versa.

    • You cannot add, reorder, or delete steps if the protocol is included in an active or archived workflow.

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    Delete Protocols

    To delete a protocol:

    1. In the Protocols list, select the protocol.

    2. On the protocol configuration form, select Delete.

    Note the following details:

    • You cannot delete a protocol if it is included in an active or archived workflow. In this case, the Delete button is not enabled.

    • If you delete a protocol, the steps it contains, and the master steps on which those steps were based are not deleted.

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    Copy Protocols

    After you have added and configured a protocol, you can copy it and then modify the copy for use in other workflows. This is useful if you have multiple protocols with similar base configuration, as it saves you having to recreate each one from scratch.

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    To access the Lab Work tab and configure protocols, the Configuration:update permission is required. By default, only the Administrator role has this permission. For details, see User Roles and Configured Role-Based Permissions.

    When you copy a protocol, all of its steps are also copied—along with any step-level fields, automations, reagents, controls, and instruments configured on those steps.

    You can also create copies of the master steps, or you can reuse the same master steps.

    • Copying master steps does copy step-level fields.

    • Reusing master steps does not copy step-level fields.

    • If a copied master step has custom field default values that refer to other steps within the protocol, update those values to refer to the copied steps. See Update Custom Field Default on Copied Master Steps.

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    Copy a Protocol and its Step

    1. On the main menu, select Configuration.

    2. On the LIMS configuration screen, select the Lab Work tab.

    3. In the main navigation panel, in the Protocols list, select the protocol to copy.

    4. Below the navigation panel, select Copy.

    5. The Copy Protocol Options dialog opens. This dialog provides two options:

      • Append name with—This option lets you specify text to be appended to the protocol name (default is _copy). This text also is appended to the copied step names, and to the master step names if you also choose to copy those. Note: Copied step-level field names do not have the text appended.

      • Copy Master Steps?—This option lets you choose to reuse the same master steps (this is the default behavior), or create copies of the master steps.

    6. The copied protocol displays in the Protocols list, and is selected along with its related steps and master steps.

      Below the navigation panel, the protocol configuration form displays. You can work with the protocol and its steps just as you would with any other protocol/steps in the system.

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    Update Custom Field Default on Copied Master Steps

    If you have configured a custom field default on the master step you are copying, and the default value refers to the name of another step within the protocol, you must update that default value on the copied master step, so that it refers to the appropriate step in the copied protocol. The default values are not automatically updated to refer to the copied step names.

    Similarly, if you have configured a script or logic that uses custom field defaults that refer to another step within the protocol, you must update those default values on the copied master step.

    For example, in a QC protocol:

    • The Aggregate QC step has various 'Copy Task' UDFs defined - eg, Copy Task 1 - Source Step and Copy Task 2 - Source Step.

    • The values of these fields are determined by other QC steps within the protocol.

    • The script that is configured on the QC Aggregate step references those QC step names, locates the specified custom field values from the steps, and uses them to determine QC results.

    If the QC protocol is copied, the copy of the master step on which the Aggregate QC step is based must be updated so that the custom field default values refer to the appropriate steps within the protocol.

    Lab Work Overview

    If runtime is 11 PM:

    h resolves to 11

    hhh resolves to 011

    m

    Minute in hour

    The number of times you repeat the token determines the minimum number of digits returned, with the system padding the value with zeros if necessary.

    If runtime is 11:10:

    m resolves to 10

    mmm resolves to 010

    s

    Second in minute

    The number of times you repeat the token determines the minimum number of digits returned, with the system padding the value with zeros if necessary.

    If runtime is 11:10:23:

    s resolves to 23

    sss resolves to 023

    S

    Millisecond

    The number of times you repeat the token determines the minimum number of digits returned, with the system padding the value with zeros if necessary.

    If runtime is 1:10:23:01:

    S resolves to 1

    SS resolves to 01

    z

    Time zone - general

    One token results in the abbreviated time zone. Four tokens results in the entire name.

    If runtime is in the Pacific time zone, during daylight savings:

    z resolves to PDT

    zzzz resolves to Pacific Daylight Time

    Z

    Time zone - RFC 822

    The system returns the time zone in the same format, regardless of how many times the token is repeated.

    If runtime is in the Pacific time zone, during daylight savings:

    Z resolves to -0800

    Below the main navigation panel, the step and master step configuration forms display.

    Reverts to default - Group by Containers

    Well sort order

    Queue, Ice Bucket, Record Details milestones

    Reverts to default - Row

    Sample fields display

    Queue, Ice Bucket, Placement, Record Details milestones

    No action - the last fields that were configured to display remain there.

    Destination containers

    Placement milestone

    Reverts to default - uses the Container Type specified in the 'OutputContainerType' Process Type Attribute if set, and Tube otherwise.

    (If Tube has been deleted from the system, then the first single-well Container Type in the system is used.)

    Removing the last destination container also removes the ability to set placement on the Master Step (you only have the option to turn on the placement screen if there is at least one multi-well container).

    Destination containers on a QC Step

    Placement milestone

    Reverts to default - No placement

    Placement pattern

    Placement milestone

    Reverts to default - Row

    Skip alternating rows, Skip alternating columns.

    Placement milestone

    Reverts to default - No

    Label groups

    Add Labels milestone

    Reverts to default - First group configured in LIMS (first by creation date, not by name)

    Step data heading

    Record Details milestone

    Reverts to default - Step Data

    Default group of defaults

    Record Details milestone

    Removed. No defaults set.

    Step fields display

    Record Details milestone

    Removed. No defaults set.

    Step field order

    Record Details milestone

    Reverts to default - Vertical

    File attachment method

    Record Details milestone

    Reverts to default - Manual

    eSignature

    Record Details milestone

    Reverts to default - Off

    Sample details heading

    Record Details milestone

    Reverts to default - Sample Table

    Sample display default

    Record Details milestone

    Reverts to default - Collapse

    Enable QC flags

    Record Details milestone on QC Steps

    Reverts to default - No

    File Column Display

    Record Details milestone on QC Steps

    Reverts to default - Show

    File Attachment Method

    Record Details milestone on QC Steps

    Reverts to default - Manual

    Instrument types

    Master step or step

    Control types

    Master step or step

    Reagent kits

    Master step or step

    Step milestones

    Master step or step

    Some milestone settings must be configured on the master step.

    Label groups

    Master step or step

    See

    Label uniqueness

    Master step

    See

    Step file placeholders

    Master step

    See

    Input Sample-N701-N501 (TAAGGCGA-TAGATCGC)

    Pooling

    {PoolName}

    Pool #1

    Analysis

    {InputItemName}

    Input Sample

    Demultiplexing

    {InputItemName} (FASTQ reads) {AppliedReagentLabels}

    Input Sample (FASTQ reads) N701-N501 (TAAGGCGA-TAGATCGC)

    Configure a Master Step
    If you are adding a Non-QC protocol, select the type from the drop-down list.
  • In the Capacity field, enter the sample capacity of this protocol.

  • In the Master Step list, the master step upon which the step is based is also highlighted.

    Selected an option and then select Continue to copy the protocol and steps.

    These protocols are hidden for both lab scientists and administrators in Lab View and are therefore not available for use in the lab.

    These protocols are only visible to administrative users in the configuration area.

    Yes

    These protocols are displayed in Lab View and can be used by lab scientists to perform their work in the lab.

    Capacity

    The sample capacity of the protocol. This depends on the number of lab scientists in your facility, and the number of samples they can work with at any given time.

    The Capacity setting controls the highlighting on the Overview and Projects dashboards, allowing you to see at a glance which protocols are approaching or exceeding sample capacity.

    Add and Configure Reagent Kits and Lots
    Add and Configure Controls
    Add and Configure Instruments
    Add and Configure Automations
    Add and Configure Automations

    Step Milestones

    This section explains the relationship between milestones, master steps, and steps; shows how to access milestone configuration settings; and provides an overview of each milestone.

    Milestones are the various stages of a step that are presented to lab users as they run samples through steps in Clarity LIMS.

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    Milestones and Step Types

    Some screens (such as the Queue, Ice Bucket, and Record Details screens) display on all steps, while others only display on certain step types.

    For example, the Pooling milestone only displays on steps of the Pooling type and the Add Labels screen only displays on steps of the Add Labels type. On all other step types, those milestones are disabled on both the master step and step configuration forms.

    The following table shows the milestones that are available for display for each step type. For more information on step types, see .

    Milestones Displayed for Step Types

    Step Type
    Queue
    Ice Bucket
    Step Setup*
    Pooling
    Placement
    Add Labels
    Record Details

    *While the Step Setup screen is available for display on all step types, it is optional and does not display by default. To enable the Step Setup screen, you must first add file placeholders on the master step. For details, see .

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    Configuring Milestones

    You can configure milestone settings on the master step and step configuration forms.

    When switching between the step and master step configuration forms while viewing or editing a milestone, you are returned to the parent step/master step form. You need to select the milestone name again to open its settings form.

    Similarly, if you wish to return to the step or master step settings form, select the parent master step or step tab.

    To configure a milestone:

    • Select it to open its settings form.

    When configuring milestones on master steps and steps, consider the following details:

    • Milestone settings configured on the master step remain locked on all steps derived from the master step. In this scenario, the milestone displays on the step configuration form with a Locked icon, indicating that these settings are not configurable at the step level.

    • If you configure a list of items at the master step level—for example, expanded view fields, instrument types, reagent kits—the order in which they are listed on the master step is overwritten by the order set at the step level. Set the order of any list at the step level. This includes the order of the Sample table column headers.

    • If you remove configured settings from a master step, those settings on the related steps revert to their default values. The exception is if this would leave the step in an unworkable state. For example, you cannot remove the last container from a step. Exceptions to this 'revert to default' rule are noted where applicable.

    To understand how properties set on the master step propagate down to the step level, see .

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    Configure Queue Milestone

    When running samples through a step, the first screen that displays is the Queue screen. This screen provides a sample table to select samples to be placed into the Ice Bucket, reserving them for use.

    The following components of the Queue Sample table are configurable on the Queue Settings form:

    • The Sample table column headers

    • The Sample table expanded view fields

    • Default grouping and well sort order of Sample table

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    Configure Sample Table Column Headers

    On the Queue Settings form, configure the column headers that display in the Sample table, and the order in which they display.

    Note the following:

    • No default column headers are configured at the master step level.

    • When configuring column headers on a new step, several default column headers will display. You can remove these, but the table must have at least one field remaining (this may be set on either the master step or the step).

    chevron-rightAdd a Column Headerhashtag
    1. On the Queue Settings form, in the Sample Table section, select Add.

    2. At the right of the screen, a list of fields displays, grouped by Measurement, Derived Sample, Submitted Sample, Container, and Project.

    chevron-rightRemove a Column Headerhashtag
    1. Select the X button that displays beneath (or next to, if fields are listed vertically) the column header you want to remove.

    2. Save your changes.

    chevron-rightReorder Column Headershashtag
    1. Select a column header and then drag it into its new position.

    2. Save your changes.

      NOTE: To drag and drop on a mobile or touch-screen device, touch and hold the item you wish to drag. After a moment, the item will appear to lift off the page and its color will change to white. You can then drag the item and drop it into its new position.

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    Configure Sample Table Expanded View Fields

    Expanded view fields are hidden by default in the Sample table. These fields contain additional details about the samples in the queue. At run time, choose to display these details by clicking the Show/Hide Details button.

    On the Queue Settings form, in the Expanded View Fields section, you can select additional fields to add to the body of the Sample table.

    Note the following:

    • No default expanded view fields are configured at the master step or the step level.

    • If expanded view fields are configured at the master step level, they display as locked at the step level and cannot be removed. You can modify the order in which the locked fields display.

    • Expanded view fields are available for display in multiple milestone screens. The configuration options set in each milestone are specific to that milestone. You may choose to configure the expanded view fields differently in other milestones.

    chevron-rightAdd Expanded View Fieldshashtag
    1. In the Expanded View Fields section, select Add.

    2. At the right of the screen, a list of fields displays. These are the groups of custom fields configured on the Custom Fields > Global Fields configuration screen. Any fields already included in the Expanded View Fields list do not display in the list.

    chevron-rightRemove Expanded View Fieldshashtag
    1. Select the X that displays next to the field you want to remove.

    2. Save your changes.

    chevron-rightReorder Expanded View Fieldshashtag
    1. Select a field and then drag it into its new position.

    2. Save your changes.

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    Configure Sample Table Defaults

    On the Queue screen, samples are grouped by Container and sorted by well Row by default.

    On the Queue Settings form, in the Defaults section, you can modify these settings if necessary.

    chevron-rightSet Default Sample Groupinghashtag
    1. In the Sample Grouping drop-down list, select your preferred default sample grouping option.

    2. You can choose to group by:

    chevron-rightSet Well Sort Orderinghashtag
    1. Select the Well Sort Order toggle switch to set the default well sort ordering to Column (A1, B1, C1, and so on) or Row (A1, A2, A3, and so on).

    2. Save your changes.

    NOTE: Well Sort Order setting is only applicable to Sample List Table View.

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    Configure Ice Bucket Milestone

    Samples move from the Queue into the Ice Bucket, where they are reserved for use for 30 minutes. The Ice Bucket screen displays for all step types. It comprises a Sample table that displays information about the samples entering the step.

    The following components of the Ice Bucket screen are configurable on the Ice BucketSettings form:

    • The Sample table column headers

    • The Sample table expanded view fields

    • Default grouping and well sort order of Sample table

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    Configure Sample Table Column Header

    On the Ice Bucket Settings form, configure the column headers that display in the Sample table, and the order in which they display.

    Note the following:

    • No default column headers are configured at the master step level.

    • When configuring column headers on a new step, several default column headers will display. You can remove these, but the table must have at least one field remaining (this may be set on either the master step or the step).

    chevron-rightAdd a Column Headerhashtag
    1. On the Ice Bucket Settings form, in the Sample Table section, select Add.

    2. At the right of the screen, a list of fields displays, grouped by Measurement, Derived Sample, Submitted Sample, Container, and Project.

    chevron-rightRemove a Column Headerhashtag
    1. Select the X button that displays beneath (or next to, if fields are listed vertically) the column header you want to remove.

    2. Save your changes.

    chevron-rightReorder Column Headershashtag
    1. Select a column header and then drag it into its new position.

    2. Save your changes.

      NOTE: To drag and drop on a mobile or touch-screen device, touch and hold the item you wish to drag. After a moment, the item will appear to lift off the page and its color will change to white. You can then drag the item and drop it into its new position.

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    Configure Sample Table Expanded View Fields

    Expanded view fields are hidden by default in the Sample table. These fields contain additional details about the samples in the Ice Bucket. At run time, choose to display these details by clicking the Show/Hide Details button.

    On the Ice Bucket Settings form, in the Expanded View Fields section, you can select additional fields to add to the body of the Sample table.

    Note the following:

    • No default expanded view fields are configured at the master step or the step level.

    • If expanded view fields are configured at the master step level, they display as locked at the step level and cannot be removed. However, you can modify the order in which the locked fields display.

    • Expanded view fields are available for display in multiple milestone screens. However, the configuration options set in each milestone are specific to that milestone; you may choose to configure the expanded view fields differently in other milestones.

    chevron-rightAdd Expanded View Fieldshashtag
    1. In the Expanded View Fields section, select Add.

    2. At the right of the screen, a list of fields displays. These are the groups of custom fields configured on the Custom Fields > Global Fields configuration screen. Any fields already included in the Expanded View Fields list do not display in the list.

    chevron-rightRemove Expanded View Fieldshashtag
    1. Select the X that displays next to the field you want to remove.

    2. Save your changes.

    chevron-rightReorder Expanded View Fieldshashtag
    1. Select a field and then drag it into its new position.

    2. Save your changes.

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    Configure Sample Table Defaults

    By default in the Ice Bucket screen, samples are grouped by Container and sorted by well Row.

    On the Ice BucketSettings form, in the Defaults section, you can modify these settings if necessary.

    chevron-rightSet Default Sample Groupinghashtag
    1. In the Sample Grouping drop-down list, select your preferred default sample grouping option.

    2. You can choose to group by:

    chevron-rightSet Well Sort Orderinghashtag
    1. Select the Well Sort Order toggle switch to set the default well sort ordering to Column (A1, B1, C1, and so on) or Row (A1, A2, A3, and so on).

    2. Save your changes.

    NOTE: Well Sort Order setting is only applicable to Sample List Table View.

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    Configure Step Setup Milestone

    The Step Setup screen is an optional screen. By default, it does not display at run time.

    This screen lets you provide the lab scientist running the step—and provide Clarity LIMS—with access to files before samples are placed. You can then configure step automations that parse these files and use the information to place samples into destination containers, based on the result file specifications.

    If you enable the display of the Step Setup screen (you can enable it on any step type), it displays immediately after the Ice Bucket screen.

    The Step Setup Settings screen allows you to do the following:

    • Add file placeholders that will be populated at run time. Configure these on the master step.

    • After you have added file placeholders, you can then enable the display of the Step Setup Settings screen at run time. You can configure this on the master step or the step. However, as with all master step settings, if you enable the screen on the master step, it displays on all steps derived from that master step.

    • Configure the attachment method for each file added—manual or automatic. You may configure this on the master step or the step.

    To enable the Step Setup screen, you must first configure one or more file placeholders on the master step.

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    Add a File Placeholder

    1. On the Lab Work tab, in the Master Steps list, select the master step on which you would like to configure the file placeholders.

    2. Select the Step Setup milestone.

    3. In the File Placeholders section, select Add.

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    Set the Attachment Method

    To set the attachment method, select the Attachment toggle switch to set the file attachment method.

    If you set the attachment method to Auto, configure a step automation to generate and attach the file. For details, see .

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    Remove a File Placeholder

    To remove a file placeholder, select the X button.

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    Enable the Step Setup Screen

    1. On the Lab Work tab, in the Master Steps or Steps list, select the master step or step on which you would like to configure Step Setup file placeholders.

    2. Select the Step Setup milestone.

    3. At the top of the Step Setup Settings screen, select the toggle switch to enable the Step Setup screen. The screen now displays at run time.

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    Configure Pooling Milestone

    When you create a step and choose the Pooling step type, the Pooling milestone is enabled. When running the step, the Pooling screen allows the lab scientist to create pools of samples.

    The following components of the Pooling screen are configurable on the Pooling Settings form.

    • Enable and disable label uniqueness to control whether samples with the same labels, or no labels, may be pooled together. This must be configured on the master step.

    • Configure defaults for sample grouping and well sort order. You can configure these settings at the master step or step level.

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    Configure Label Uniqueness

    1. Select the Label Uniqueness toggle switch to turn label uniqueness on and off.

      • When Label Uniqueness is On (default setting), samples with the same labels cannot be pooled together.

      • When Label Uniqueness is Off, samples with the same label or no labels may be pooled together.

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    Configure Pooling Screen Defaults

    On the Pooling screen, by default samples are:

    • Grouped by Container

    • Sorted by well Row (A1, A2, A3, and so on)

    • Placed by Column (A1, B1, C1, and so on)

    You can modify these settings if necessary.

    chevron-rightSet Default Sample Groupinghashtag
    1. In the Sample Grouping drop-down list, select your preferred default sample grouping option.

    2. You can choose to group by:

    chevron-rightSet Well Sort Orderinghashtag
    1. Select the Well Sort Order toggle switch to set the default well sort ordering to Column (A1, B1, C1, and so on) or Row (A1, A2, A3, and so on).

    2. Save your changes.

    NOTE: Well Sort Order setting is only applicable to Sample List Table View.

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    Configure Placement Milestone

    The Placement screen is used for QC steps and for steps that generate derived samples. When the screen displays at run time, it allows manual placement of samples into the destination container.

    Note the following:

    • Automatic placement supports only placement by shape.

    • In tube-only workflows, the Placement screen is disabled by default and samples are automatically placed. This is true for all step types, except Add Labels steps, in which a tube rack Placement screen displays to allow for manual placement of samples.

    • In the following step types, no sample placement occurs. The Placement screen is disabled and it does not display at run time. Analysis steps

    The Placement Settings form allows for the following configuration.

    • Turn off the Placement screen and have samples placed automatically into corresponding wells of the destination container (source and destination containers must be the same).

    • Disable the Placement screen so that it does not display at run time and cannot be viewed. You can only do this on QC steps where no sample placement is required—ie, where samples remain in the same container throughout the step. The step cannot have destination containers configured.

    • Configure the destination containers that are permitted on the step.

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    Configure Display of the Placement Screen

    When the Placement Screen toggle switch is enabled, the Placement screen displays at run time. The lab scientist manually places samples into the destination container.

    To turn off the Placement screen:

    • Select the toggle switch to turn off the Placement Screen and enable autoplacement of samples.

    • At run time, bypass the Placement screen. If necessary, the user can return to the screen (by selecting its tab) to view placement details.

    When the Placement Screen is disabled, the milestone label changes to Auto-Placement. However, if the source and destination containers are not of the same type, Clarity LIMS determines that autoplacement cannot occur and reenables manual placement so that samples can be placed.

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    Configure Destination Containers

    Destination containers are the containers into which samples are placed at run time. These containers display to the user in a drop-down list on the Ice Bucket screen. The selected container is then used to set up the subsequent Placement screen.

    chevron-rightBefore You Beginhashtag

    When creating a step that supports placement, keep the following details in mind:

    • By default, any destination containers configured on the master step are added to the step.

    • If the master step does not have a destination container set, and the step is not a QC step, then the Tube container type is added by default. If no such container type exists, the first 'tube-like' (eg., single well) container, and that failing, the first container type available, is associated to the step.

    chevron-rightAdd a Destination Containerhashtag
    1. In the Destination Containers section, select Add.

    2. At the right of the screen, a list of container types displays. These are the containers configured on the Containers configuration screen.

    chevron-rightRemove a Destination Containerhashtag
    1. Select the X button that displays next to the container you want to remove. (you cannot remove the last container from a step.)

    2. Save your changes.

    chevron-rightReorder a Destination Containerhashtag
    1. Select a container and then drag it into its new position.

    2. Save your changes.

      NOTE: To drag and drop on a mobile or touch-screen device, touch and hold the item you wish to drag. After a moment, the item appears to lift off the page and its color changes to white. You can then drag the item and drop it into its new position.

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    Configure Placement Screen Defaults

    On the Pooling screen, by default samples are:

    • Grouped by Container

    • Sorted by well Row (A1, A2, A3, and so on)

    • Placed by Column (A1, B1, C1, and so on)

    You can modify these settings if necessary.

    chevron-rightSet Default Sample Groupinghashtag
    1. In the Sample Grouping drop-down list, select your preferred default sample grouping option.

    2. You can choose to group by:

    chevron-rightSet Well Sort Orderinghashtag
    1. Select the Well Sort Order toggle switch to set the default well sort ordering to Column (A1, B1, C1, and so on) or Row (A1, A2, A3, and so on).

      The well sort ordering configured here is also applied to the Add Labels screen.

    chevron-rightSet the Placement Patternhashtag
    1. Select the Placement Pattern toggle switch to set the default placement pattern to either Column, Row, or Same Shape.

    2. Save your changes.

    chevron-rightSkip Alternating Rows or Columnshashtag
    1. Select the Skip Alternating Rows or Skip Alternating Columns toggle switch to skip alternate rows or columns in the destination container when samples are placed.

    2. Save your changes.

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    Configure Add Labels Milestone

    When you create a step and choose the Add Labels step type, the Add Labels milestone is enabled. When running the step, the Add Labels screen allows the lab scientist to add a reagent label (also known as index or molecular barcode) to each sample.

    Note the following:

    • To add a label group to a step, you must have first configured the label group on the Consumables > Labels configuration screen. For details, see .

    • When you create an Add Labels step, the first label group configured in the system is added to the step automatically.

      • There must be at least one label group defined on either the master step or the step.

    Label groups are the only configurable components on the Add Labels Settings form.

    chevron-rightAdd a Label Grouphashtag
    1. On the Add Labels Settings form, in the Label Groups section, select Add.

    2. At the right of the screen, the Label Groups list displays.

      These are the label groups configured on the Consumables > Labels configuration screen (see

    chevron-rightDelete a Label Grouphashtag
    1. To remove a label group, select its X button.

    Remember that there must be at least one label group defined on either the master step or the step.

    You cannot remove the last label group from the step/master step - the X button does not display.

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    Configure Record Details Milestone

    The Record Details screen is where data are tracked on the step at run time. It includes information about the step, files generated by or uploaded to the step, e-Signature sign-off (if enabled), and information about the samples in the step.

    The following components of the Record Details screen are configurable on the Record Details Settings form:

    • The step-level information (step data) tracked on the step. You can also change the heading of the step data section, and set a default value for the Group of Defaults configured on the master step.

    • Step file placeholders for files that is attached to the step at run time, and their attachment method.

    • The sample-level information tracked and displayed in the Sample table

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    Configure Step Data

    The Step Data section of the Record Details screen allows you to track and display step-level data at run time, specifically the master step fields associated with the step.

    On the Record Details Settings form, you can configure the following:

    • The heading that displays at the top of the section.

    • The default value for the Group of Defaults that displays in the upper-right corner of the screen.

    • The step data fields that display, and the order and layout in which they display. Note the following:

    NOTE: Multiline text fields are much wider than step fields and always display below them on the Record Details screen. For this reason, they are configured separately.

    *Groups of defaults and master step fields are defined on the Custom Fields > Master Step Fields configuration screen. For details, see .

    chevron-rightChange the Step Data Headinghashtag
    1. In the Step Data Heading field, type your preferred heading.

    2. Save your changes.

    chevron-rightSelect a Default Group of Defaultshashtag
    1. Expand the Group of Defaults drop-down list and select the group of defaults you would like to use.

    2. Save your changes.

    chevron-rightSelect the Master Step Fields to Displayhashtag
    1. In the Master Step Fields section, select Add.

    2. At the right of the screen, the step fields that are configured on the master step are listed.

    chevron-rightSelect the Multiline Text Fields to Displayhashtag
    1. In the Multiline Text Fields section, select Add.

    2. At the right of the screen, any multiline fields that are configured on the master step are listed.

    chevron-rightSet the Field Orderhashtag
    1. Select the Field Order toggle switch to determine whether step fields are arranged horizontally or vertically, and the tab order of the fields. Multiline fields are not included in the field order and always display below the step field columns.

      The preview area updates to show you how the fields display at run time.

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    Configure Step File Placeholders

    Configuring file placeholders allows you to attach sample measurement files to a step at run time. For example, you may want to attach an instrument input files or sample sheets, a QC measurement file, a log file, run report, or lab tracking form. Files may be manually uploaded or automatically generated and attached using a script. The default attachment method is manual attachment.

    Note the following:

    • Configure step file placeholders on the master step. You cannot configure or modify these at the step level. A lock icon on the Step Settings form indicates this.

    • Create a placeholder for each file to be attached.

    • Configure the attachment method—Manual or Auto, at the master step or the step level. If the attachment method is set on the master step, it cannot be changed at the step level (lock icon displays on the Step Settings form).

    chevron-rightAdd a Step File Placeholderhashtag
    1. On the Lab Work tab, in the Master Steps list, select the master step on which you would like to configure file placeholders.

    2. Select the Record Details milestone.

    chevron-rightSet the Attachment Methodhashtag
    1. On the Master Step Settings form or Step Settings form, select the Attachment toggle switch to determine whether files are to be attached manually or automatically by a script.

    2. Save your changes.

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    Configure the Sample Table

    At the bottom of the Record Details form, the Sample Table section lets you view and track data on your samples at run time.

    On the Record Details Settings screen, you can configure the following components of the Record Details screen Sample table:

    • The table heading. (Default table heading is 'Sample Table'.)

    • The display of the QC flags field (when this field is enabled, mark samples with a QC pass or fail flag.

    • The default display of the Sample table listing. The default view is Collapsed - for faster loading time of the sample list.

    Note the following:

    • You can enable QC flags on any step type that allows you to mark a sample with a pass or fail flag.

    • By default, QC flags are enabled on Standard QC steps. This setting is locked and cannot be changed.

    • By default, QC flags are disabled on Analysis steps. This setting is locked and cannot be changed.

    chevron-rightChange the Sample Table Headinghashtag
    1. In the Table Heading field, type your preferred heading.

    2. Save your changes.

    chevron-rightEnable/Disable QC Flagshashtag
    1. Select the Enable QC Flags toggle switch to enable or disable the QC column in the Sample table.

      • When enabled, the QC column displays and must be written to - each sample must be assigned either a QC pass or QC fail flag.

    chevron-rightSet the Default Display for the Sample Table Fieldshashtag
    1. Select the Sample Display Default toggle switch to set the default sample display to Expand or Collapse.

    2. Save your changes.

    chevron-rightAdd Sample Table Columnshashtag
    1. In the Table Columns section, select Add.

    2. At the right of the screen, a list of fields displays, grouped by Measurement, Derived Sample, Submitted Sample, Container, and Project. These are the groups of custom fields configured on the Custom Fields > Global Fields configuration screen.

    chevron-rightRemove a Column Headerhashtag
    1. Select the X button that displays beneath (or next to, if fields are listed vertically) the column header you want to remove.

    2. Save your changes.

    chevron-rightReorder Column Headershashtag
    1. Select a column header and then drag it into its new position.

    2. Save your changes.

      NOTE: To drag and drop on a mobile or touch-screen device, touch and hold the item you wish to drag. After a moment, the item will appear to lift off the page and its color will change to white. You can then drag the item and drop it into its new position.

    hashtag
    Configure eSignatures

    Clarity LIMS provides the ability to configure a step such that it requires sign-off by electronic signature (eSignature) before it can be completed.

    • Steps that have eSignature enabled display an eSignature enforcement button on the Record Details screen, and require valid eSignature credentials (username and password) to be entered.

    • Next Steps cannot be viewed until these credentials have been entered with eSignature signing permission.

    • Until the step has been completed, any changes made to the step will again require an eSignature sign off.

    The eSignatures Review configuration panel displays on the Record Details Settings screen only if the clarity.eSignature.enabled property is enabled.

    If the panel is enabled, you can configure electronic signatures (e-signatures) on a step or master step. This means that samples in the step cannot move forward (Next Steps button is disabled) until an e-signature has been entered with the appropriate role-based permission.

    NOTE: As with all other step settings, if you enable e-signatures on a master step, the setting displays with a Locked icon and is enabled on all steps derived from that master step.

    chevron-rightWho Can Signhashtag

    Permission to sign an eSignature is a role-based permission. For details, refer to .

    By default, lab scientists cannot sign off on their own work.

    chevron-rightConfiguration Tool and Propertieshashtag

    eSignature enforcement is achieved by configuring the eSignature.Enabled and eSignature.RequiresDifferentReviewer properties, using the omxprops-ConfigTool.jar tool at:

    • eSignature.Enabled

    chevron-rightConfiguring Steps to Require an eSignaturehashtag

    When eSignature is globally enabled, you can enable/disable eSignature requirement for any step.

    This setting is available on the Record Details milestone in master step/step configuration (accessible from the Lab Work configuration screen). For details, see .

    By default, eSignature is enabled for steps.

    When eSignature is enabled for a step:

    Configure Record Details Milestone
    Configure Add Labels Milestone
    Configure Pooling Milestone
    Configure Record Details Milestone

    Standard QC

    Aggregate QC

    Add Labels

    Pooling

    Analysis

    Demultiplexing

  • Settings configured at the step level only apply to that particular step.

  • These are the groups of custom fields configured on the Custom Fields > Global Fields configuration screen.
  • Select the arrows to expand the groupings and view the fields within each group.

  • Select one or more fields, and then select the checkmark to add them to the Sample Table area. Select fields individually, Shift + select to select multiple adjacent fields, or Ctrl + select to select multiple nonadjacent fields.

  • As you add column headers, you may notice that the display changes from a horizontal to a vertical layout. This is an indication that you have exceeded the recommended optimum width of the table. You may want to consider removing some fields.

  • Save your changes

    NOTE: While there is no limit to the number of column headers that can be added to the Sample table, we recommend a maximum of six columns. As more columns are added, each becomes narrower and this can make the heading text difficult to read.

  • Select the arrows to expand the groupings and view the fields within each group.

  • Select one or more fields, and then select the checkmark to add them to the Expanded View Fields list. Select fields individually, Shift + select to select multiple adjacent fields, or Ctrl + select to select multiple nonadjacent fields.

  • Save your changes.

  • The project (in which samples belong).

  • The container (in which the samples are currently located).

  • The submitted sample (from which the samples originated).

  • The previous step (the samples have undertaken).

  • Save your changes.

  • These are the groups of custom fields configured on the Custom Fields > Global Fields configuration screen.
  • Select the arrows to expand the groupings and view the fields within each group.

  • Select one or more fields, and then select the checkmark to add them to the Sample Table area. Select fields individually, Shift + select to select multiple adjacent fields, or Ctrl + select to select multiple nonadjacent fields.

  • As you add column headers, you may notice that the display changes from a horizontal to a vertical layout. This is an indication that you have exceeded the recommended optimum width of the table. You may want to consider removing some fields.

  • Save your changes

    NOTE: While there is no limit to the number of column headers that can be added to the Sample table, we recommend a maximum of six columns. As more columns are added, each becomes narrower and this can make the heading text difficult to read.

  • Select the arrows to expand the groupings and view the fields within each group.

  • Select one or more fields and then select the checkmark button to add them to the Expanded View Fields list. You can select fields individually, Shift + select to select multiple adjacent fields, or Ctrl + select to select multiple nonadjacent fields.

  • Save your changes.

  • The project (in which samples belong).

  • The container (in which the samples are currently located).

  • The submitted sample (from which the samples originated).

  • The previous step (the samples have undertaken).

  • Save your changes.

  • Type a name for the file placeholder.
  • [Optional] You can copy and paste tokens from theTokens list into the name field. For details, see Derived Sample Naming Convention Tokens.

  • Enter instructional text.

  • When the Step Setup screen is enabled, it becomes available for selection as an automation trigger location. If you configure an automation trigger location on the Step Setup screen, the Step Setup screen cannot be disabled.

    Save your changes.

    The project (in which samples belong).

  • The container (in which the samples are currently located).

  • Save your changes.

  • Aggregate QC steps

  • Standard steps where derived sample generation is set to None.

  • Configure the sample placement defaults—grouping, well sort order, placement pattern, and whether to skip alternate rows/columns in the container.

  • Destination containers configured at the master step level display as locked at the step level - you cannot remove them from the step. However, you can modify the order in which the locked containers display in the drop-down list.

  • Also note the following:

    • Destination containers configured at the master step level display as locked and cannot be removed at the step level. However, you can modify the order in which the locked containers display in the drop-down list.

    • To add destination containers to a step, you must have first configured those containers on the Containers configuration screen. See

    • You can add, reorder, and remove containers freely, but you must choose at least one container if your step type requires placement (either via autoplacement or via manual placement during run time).

    • If the container is a tube or other single well container that is treated like a tube, an Autoplace label displays on the container, to inform you that the Placement screen does not display at run time. This behavior is controlled by a toggle switch that displays on the Containers configuration screen when configuring single-well containers. (The exception to this is for Add Labels steps, which display a tube rack Placement screen for placing samples into tube-like containers.)

    Select one or more containers and then select the checkmark button to add them to the Destination Containers list. You can select containers individually, Shift + select to select multiple adjacent fields, or Ctrl + select to select multiple nonadjacent fields.

  • Save your changes.

    NOTE: To add destination containers to a step, you must have first configured those containers on the Containers configuration screen. For details, see .

  • Placed into all container wells - no rows or columns are skipped.

    The project (in which samples belong).

  • The container (in which the samples are currently located).

  • Save your changes.

  • Save your changes.

    NOTE: Well Sort Order setting is only applicable to Sample List Table View.

    You cannot remove the last label group from the step/master step.

  • You cannot remove label groups added on the master step from the step.

  • Label groups are listed in alphanumeric order. The order is not modifiable.

  • The well sorting setting configured on the Configure Placement Milestone is also applied to the Add Labels screen.

  • ).
  • Select one or more label groups and then select the checkmark to add them to the Label Groups area. Select groups individually, Shift + select to select multiple adjacent fields, or Ctrl + select to select multiple nonadjacent groups.

    The selected label groups are added to the list.

  • Save your changes.

  • Electronic signatures - this panel only displays if you have enabled the clarity.eSignature.enabled property.
    The default heading is 'Step Data Table'.
  • You are not required to set a default value for the Group of Defaults.

  • You are not required to add master step fields or multiline text fields.

  • When step fields and/or multiline text fields are added, they are arranged vertically by default.

  • As you configure the step data, the Preview area on the right updates to show you how the configuration displays at run time on the Record Details screen.

  • Select a field and then select the checkmark button to add it to the Display Step Fields list. Select fields individually, Shift + select to select multiple adjacent fields, or Ctrl + select to select multiple nonadjacent fields. After you have added a field, it is removed from the list on the right.

  • If necessary, you can reorder fields by clicking and dragging them into position.

    On the right, the preview area updates to show you how the fields display at run time.

  • Save your changes.

  • Select a field and then select the checkmark button to add it to the Multiline Text Fields list. Select fields individually, Shift + select to select multiple adjacent fields, or Ctrl + select to select multiple nonadjacent fields. After you have added a field, it is removed from the list on the right.

  • If necessary, reorder fields by clicking and dragging them into position. On the right, the preview area updates to show you how the fields display at run time.

  • Save your changes.

  • Save your changes.

    The default attachment method is Auto.

  • In the Sample Table section, if the File Column Display is set to Hide, the Attachment toggle switch is set to Auto and is disabled. To manually attach files in the Sample table, the column must be visible.

  • The attachment method applies to the shared sample measurement files generated. If you need to set the attachment method for individual files generated for each sample, you can use the API to do this. For details, see API Referencearrow-up-right.

  • In the Step File Placeholders section, select Add.

  • Type a name for the file placeholder. You can copy and paste tokens into the name, if necessary. For details, see Derived Sample Naming Convention Tokens.

  • The table columns that display in the Sample table, and the order in which they display.
    • The File Options Column and the File Attachment Method toggle switch only display on the Record Details Settings screen on steps that generate measurements. These settings allow you to choose if you want to display a column for sample files and choose how these files are attached to the step (manually or automatically).

    Enable QC flags on a No Outputs step to use the step for QC aggregation.
  • Sample groupings are collapsed by default to optimize screen loading time, but can also be expanded by default.

  • If the step generates measurements, Sample File Options display. These allow you to choose if you want to view a column for Sample Files and choose how these files are attached (manually or automatically).

  • When configuring the Sample table:

    • No default column headers are configured at the master step level.

  • When configuring column headers on a new step, several default column headers display. You can remove these; however, the table must have at least one field remaining (this may be set on either the master step or the step).

  • The Sample table displays in multiple milestone screens. However, the configuration options set in each milestone are specific to that milestone; you may choose to configure other milestone Sample tables differently. The unique aspect of the Record Details Sample table is that the derived sample and submitted sample fields can be written to (according to their respective step type).

  • When disabled, the QC column does not display.

  • Save your changes.

  • Select the arrows to expand the groupings and view the fields within each group.

  • Select one or more fields and then select the checkmark button to add them to the Table Columns area. Select fields individually, Shift + select to select multiple adjacent fields, or Ctrl + select to select multiple nonadjacent fields.

  • As you add column headers, you may notice that the display changes from a horizontal to a vertical layout. This is an indication that you have exceeded the recommended optimum width of the table, and you may want to consider removing some fields.

  • Save your changes

    NOTE: While there is no limit to the number of column headers that can be added to the Sample table, we recommend a maximum of six columns. As more columns are added, each becomes narrower and this can make the heading text difficult to read.

  • All eSignature events, successful or not, are recorded with the step and in the audit trail.
    Description: Enables/disables eSignature for step execution
  • Default value: false

  • Result: By default, eSignature enforcement on step execution is not enabled.

  • eSignature.RequiresDifferentReviewer

    • Description: Determines whether the eSignature must be provided by someone other than the person executing the step.

    • Default value: true

    • Result: By default, if eSignature.Enabled is set to "true", the eSignature must be provided by someone other than the person executing the step.

  • To change the default settings for eSignature enforcement, contact the Clarity LIMS Support team for assistance.

    The Record Details screen shows the eSignature button and the Next Steps button is disabled.

  • Selecting eSignature opens a dialog that requires valid eSignature credentials to be entered. Before proceeding to the next step, another user with the permission to sign eSignatures must sign in to the system and sign the eSignature.

  • After valid eSignature credentials have been entered, the Next Steps button is enabled. Hovering over the eSignature button displays a tooltip showing who signed the step and when.

  • Standard

    Configured Role-Based Permissions
    About Step Types and Outputs
    Configure Step Setup Milestone
    Rules for Propagation of Master Step Properties
    Add and Configure Automations
    Configure Record Details Milestone

    /opt/gls/clarity/tools/propertytool
    Add and Configure Containers
    Add and Configure Containers
    Add and Configure Labels and Label Groups
    Add and Configure Labels and Label Groups
    Add and Configure Custom Fields