Laboratories thrive on precision and efficiency. With thousands of samples and chemicals requiring accurate identification, a seamless labelling system is crucial. When an Australian lab faced bottlenecks with their manual label printing process, DCS (Aust.) stepped in to provide a game-changing solution.

The Case: Inefficient and Error-Prone Labelling Process

The lab tracked all sample data within an Excel spreadsheet and needed labels that could endure harsh conditions – including cryogenic storage and exposure to chemical cleaning agents. However, their existing workflow involved multiple manual steps:

1. Copying sample data into a separate spreadsheet linked to the printing software.
2. Manually selecting relevant samples to print.
3. Repeating the process every time new data was added.

Challenges Faced:

• High risk of errors: Mislabelled samples posed serious risks, from contamination to compromised research outcomes.
• Time-consuming process: Employees spent hours every week copying data between applications.
• Limited scalability: As sample volumes grew, the manual system became unsustainable.

The lab needed a tailored solution that allowed them to print directly from Excel – saving time, eliminating errors, and supporting future growth.

The Solution: Custom Label Printing from Excel

After a quick consultation to understand the lab’s workflow, DCS (Aust.) designed a bespoke printing solution for their needs. Here’s what the solution included:

1. Direct Printing from Excel

• The system enabled one-click printing directly from the lab’s existing Excel database.
• Lab staff could filter data or select specific rows to print labels without switching between programs.

2. Dynamic Label Templates

We created fully customizable templates that comply with the lab’s needs, including:

• Barcodes and QR codes for rapid identification.
• Automatic field population (e.g., batch numbers, sample types) pulled directly from Excel.
• Flexible layout designs that could adapt to different containers and storage environments.

3. Scalable Design

The system was built to scale with the lab’s growth. As new sample categories were added, the solution could accommodate them without additional upgrades.

4. Label Printing Hardware and Labels to match

We paired the bespoke solution with the GoDEX RT730i+ label printer, cryogenic labels, and a chemical-resistant thermal transfer ribbon, ensuring that:

• Labels withstand freezing cycles and chemical exposure.
• Printed text remains smudge-proof even under harsh lab conditions.

The Result: Enhanced Accuracy and Efficiency

The implementation of this custom solution delivered significant improvements in the lab’s operations.

Key Outcomes:

• Reduced manual effort: The automated solution freed up 30+ minutes per day, allowing employees to focus on other critical tasks.
• Increased accuracy: Error rates dropped, minimizing the risk of mislabelled samples.
• Improved scalability: As the lab grew, the system seamlessly supported new data without disruptions.

The End: The Right Technology Makes All the Difference

This project with DCS (Aust.) demonstrates how tailored solutions can transform operations in demanding environments. By automating the labelling process and providing high-quality labels and equipment, the lab can now focus on what matters most – accurate testing and research.

Transform Your Label Printing Process Today

Are manual labelling processes slowing down your business? Whether you’re in a laboratory, warehouse, or manufacturing environment, DCS (Aust.) can deliver a custom printing solution designed for your unique needs.

📞 Call us: 03 9898 8500
📧 Email: [email protected]

Don’t let outdated processes hold you back – streamline your operations and stay ahead with DCS (Aust.)!