A Unified ELN And Inventory Model for Development-To-Manufacturing Continuity

Digitalization creates the greatest value when laboratory records, materials, equipment, samples, and downstream manufacturing activities are connected rather than managed as separate systems. This poster describes Bend Bioscience’s implementation of IDBS Polar as the single system of record at its Oregon formulation center of excellence, integrating electronic laboratory notebooks with inventory management, asset tracking, sample genealogy, and a unified data model. Structured templates guide required metadata capture while allowing scientists and engineers to execute real workflows.

Instrument data can be attached directly to experiment records, electronic signatures route entries for review, and audit trails preserve record history without paper notebook transfers or transcription. Barcode-enabled inventory links point-of-use scans to lot, status, location, and quantity data, with real-time deduction and expiry flags. Sample genealogy provides bidirectional traceability from raw materials through formulation batches, intermediates, finished product, in-process testing, release samples, retains, and stability. Equipment calibration and maintenance status is visible before use, while stability dashboards surface upcoming pulls, chamber distribution, and capacity needs. Importantly, the same ELN spans lab experiments, engineering runs, and clinical manufacturing support, preserving process evolution across stages.

A white paper based on this material can move beyond generic “paperless lab” messaging and focus on the operational value of a connected data model: faster retrieval, fewer transcription and status errors, stronger audit readiness, better cross-functional visibility, and more continuous knowledge transfer from development into GMP execution.