Splice the Why Chromosome into your Next Lab-in-a-Lab RFP

With increasing pressure to discover and deliver new drugs at a faster pace, it’s crucial to find the right strategic partner who can meet your requirements.

Of course, asking “why” is the very DNA of science. Using our “WHY ASK IT” checklist, you can put together a comprehensive list of what your lab requires in a vendor and simplify the process as you begin evaluating your choices. It isn’t easy to determine what kind of support you require in a scientific staffing vendor – there are so many to choose from that offer a variety of service levels.

THE QUESTION: The term “scientific services” is broad and can mean different things to different people. What kind of services are included in your offering?

 WHY ASK IT: Find a company that can provide a wide range of capabilities, including direct lab support, management of analytical instrumentation, on-site experts, and a thorough evaluation of your laboratory processes.

 THE QUESTION: Do your scientists have the right skill set to help us achieve our goals?

 WHY ASK IT: A vendor needs to understand your instrumentation and processes to ensure your lab runs optimally. They should also be able to grow in their role and have the flexibility to adapt as your needs change.

 THE QUESTION: What kind of training do you have in place?

WHY ASK IT: It’s crucial to ensure that the scientists working in your lab are subject matter experts and able to provide the support you require. It’s also important to have defined programs, like safety training, for scientists to complete before they enter your site.

THE QUESTION: Do you follow a particular methodology?

WHY ASK IT: A superior vendor performs a thorough assessment of your workflow and then classifies all your activities as core or noncore, so you have a chance to see how a consulting engagement can benefit your lab.

THE QUESTION: What analytics do you provide to measure performance?

WHY ASK IT: Detailed reporting can provide visibility into all aspects of service delivery – including service performance, incurred costs, and if there’s an ROI.

THE QUESTION: How can you help us reduce the time spent on routine instrument checks?

WHY ASK IT: A good vendor has an instrument-check program in place to verify that your equipment is operating accurately and takes a proactive approach by providing data to optimize performance and identify problems.

THE QUESTION: Do you have the flexibility to handle a dynamic lab environment?

WHY ASK IT: You need a partner who has the ability to be flexible and adapt to your process as it transforms. It’s important for your vendor to be able to quickly transition their team to handle new requirements.

THE QUESTION: Do you have the capacity to deliver what we need?

WHY ASK IT: It’s critical to ensure that your vendor has years of experience in order to meet your requirements – and a large staff on hand to deliver what’s needed.

THE QUESTION: Can you handle different instrument types and technologies?

WHY ASK IT: A multivendor approach is key – your qualified staff should be able to handle many types of instrumentation and applications, regardless of make, model, or technology.

THE QUESTION: Do you have an on-site presence?

 WHY ASK THIS: Having a vendor who provides on-site support means you have the instrumentation expertise on a daily basis. This team understands your lab’s unique requirements and can tailor their support to meet them.

THE QUESTION: How can you help us to be better prepared for the future?

WHY ASK IT: Looking ahead to the future needs of your lab is essential when choosing a partner. You need someone who can see the big picture and your vision.

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