Hannover. Next year for the first time, LABVOLUTION will be presenting the LABVOLUTION AWARD for outstanding examples of laboratory optimization. The prize is aimed specifically at laboratory practitioners. Their entries, which can be submitted with immediate effect on the LABVOLUTION website , may include processes, procedures and methods, as well as technologies, such as those associated with Industry 4.0, along with laboratory design or management techniques.

The independent jury will judge the entries on three specific criteria. First, the solution itself: 40 percent of the points will be awarded for how innovative, and at the same time, practical, the solution is. 20 percent of the points depend on how effective the implementation process was, and how quickly and extensively the solution could be introduced within the laboratory organization. The challenges that had to be overcome during the introduction phase will also be taken into consideration. Finally, the third criterion is added value. The remaining 40 percent of the points are awarded for the value that the innovation adds for the laboratory. This can be measured in terms of productivity gains or cost savings, speed, reliability, safety, material input or energy efficiency, or indeed staff motivation and satisfaction. However, it is important that these benefits are sustainable in the long term, and that optimization outcomes can ideally be measured.

Entry forms for the LABVOLUTION AWARD should be submitted by the beginning of 2019, if possible. The independent jury will then select three finalists from all the entries submitted. The actual winner will be announced during LABVOLUTION, taking place from 23 to 25 May 2019 in Hannover. The three finalists will all win training courses and consultancy services specifically aimed at laboratories, which will be provided by Geniu, a company specializing in this area. The value of these consultancy services and courses for labs amounts to €10,000 for the overall winner, €2,500 for the runner-up, and €1,000 for the third-placed finalist.