Closing the loop on electronic data quality
Closing the loop on electronic data quality
Environmental NEWS - Summer 2007
Closing the loop on electronic data quality
Electronic data deliverables (EDD) provided by Lancaster Labs are often the most important data format the Lab delivers as it enables clients to work with the data to make critical decisions. Clients typically database the information, compare results to historical data and regulatory limits as well as create reports and graphs. The quality of the electronic data is critical to the success of the project, and this is where a leading product like EarthSoft’s EQuIS software adds value.
Electonic data deliverables senior specialist Christiane S. Sweigart
ensures that the electronic data generated and provided by the
lab is complete and correct for the client.
Quality of EDDs all starts in the field during sampling. The information provided on the Chain of Custody that accompanies samples to the lab often represents 20 percent of the data fields provided in the final lab EDD. Information such as field sample ID, sampling depths, collection time, collection date, project name, and sampler’s initials are included in the final lab EDD. And if this information is either incorrect or missing from the Chain of Custody, errors could result in the EDD.
The relationship and team formed between the field, lab, and data management staff is paramount. Clear communication and documentation must be followed to ensure electronic data is complete, correct and on time. “More and more environmental companies and consultants are making complete, correct deliverables a standard requirement,” says Mitch Beard, EarthSoft president. So getting the information correct is critical to the success of the team
Lancaster Labs currently provides more than 100 unique EDD formats with varying levels of complexity. Complex EDDs may contain more than 80 fields, including laboratory quality control data in multiple data files. And this is where programs like EQuIS shine. “A sampling project for 100 samples can easily generate more than 250,000 individual electronic data fields provided in EDDs, so getting the information correct is critical for our clients use,” states Don Wyand, national program director.
Software companies such as EarthSoft have developed electronic data checkers to aid laboratories in the review of EDDs and client specific reference values.
“The EarthSoft Electronic Data Processor (EDP) provides value to our clients in that it enables the lab to complete an automated review of the EDD file prior to the lab sending it to our clients. Having the electronic checker with the associated software provides a closed-loop system and confirms a clear transaction when loading,” says Brad Ayars, group leader of EDDs. ”Having our electronic data generated from our centralized database ensures consistency with results, rounding, and significant figures between electronic and hard copy formats,” adds Ayars.
Ensuring that the quality of data delivered to clients is “complete and correct” requires a commitment to accuracy from everyone who comes in contact with the sample project submittals. Sample collection, lab, and data management staff must work together in each step of the process, including sample scheduling, collection, chain-of-custody documentation, sample receipt, preparation and analysis to ensure that the electronic data generated and provided by the lab is perfect.