Element LIMS Version 7 FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions - Element LIMS version 7

What's new?

Q: How is Element LIMS v7 different than v6?
A: There are five primary areas where Element LIMS v7 is significantly different from v6: 1) new intuitive interface, 2) enhancements to existing features, 3) addition of new features, 4) new data management relationships, and 5) new development environment (Microsoft .NET Framework). You can see an overview at Element LIMS and view tutorial videos at Element LIMS Videos.

Q: Is Element LIMS v7 a completely new product? Is it totally different from v6?
A: Element LIMS has been significantly redesigned, with a new code base, but the features and organization of functionality will be familiar to existing customers. There is a fresh new user interface and more efficient workflow, but a continuity in terms of core functionality and logic.

Q: Will Element LIMS v7 have all the same features that v6 does?
A: At launch Element LIMS v7 will have all the core features and most of the ancillary features. There may be some features which saw little use that will be eliminated or delayed. Some of those features will be added in subsequent releases.

Q: Will Element ClientConnect and EnviroChain be available at launch?
A: Element ClientConnect and EnviroChain will not be available at launch but will be associated with a subsequent release. The data and document viewing portions of ClientConnect will be released first, and then the online sample submission functionality.

Q: Element LIMS v7 will be running on a new development framework. What does that mean and how will it impact us?
A: We are using Microsoft .NET development framework for Element LIMS v7. It will not directly impact you, but it makes the development of new features and maintenance of the software more efficient.

Q: Will Element LIMS get a web-based interface?
A: We are exploring a web-based interface and would expect that to be an option as part of the long-term evolution of Element LIMS sometime in the future.

Q: What does Element LIMS v7 cost?
A: There is no charge for existing customers to download Element LIMS v7 when available (projected for the later part of 2022).

Doing the update.

Q: When will the new version of Element LIMS be available to existing customers?
A: We are currently projecting some time in the later part of 2022.

Q: Why isn’t Element LIMS V7 being launched to existing customers at the same time as new customers?
A: There are many structural differences between Element LIMS v6 and v7 and it is not a simple field-for-field upgrade. We are developing a necessary migration application to enable you to make the conversion.

Q: How do we prepare for the upgrade? What should we do?
A: You can view the video tutorials available through the customer support site and we will be providing updated information and instructions along the way. In the period prior to availability, you should take care of any database clean up activities. You will also need to upgrade to the latest release of version 6.

Q: Can I just call Customer Support and get information on the software and a copy of the update?
A: You cannot do the upgrade without the migration application, which is still under development. We recommend watching the video tutorials to learn more about the updated workflow. We will be providing additional materials as we get closer to general availability.

Q: When the upgrade is available, will Promium help us?
A: We are providing the video tutorials, updated manual, and a migration application to assist you with the upgrade. If this information does not address your questions, our Customer Support team will be able to provide guidance. Additional training and/or implementation services may also be an option for a fee, depending on availability.

Q: Will my current reports and print formats from v6 work with v7?
A: Standard Promium reports will be modified to work with version 7. Any customizations you have produced yourself will have to be replicated to be compatible with v7.

Q: Is the Element LIMS v7 update mandatory?
A: The upgrade is not mandatory, but the benefits of the update are significant. In addition, there will be limitations to the updates available to Element LIMS v6. We encourage you to make the transition when it is practical for your laboratory.

Q: Should we set up a test database to assess v7 before we begin the updated?
A: Using a test database to review updates is a good business practice.

Q: I am an existing customer. Can I download Element LIMS v7 anyway and try and install it?
A: You will not be able to immediately download Element LIMS v7 until it is released for current customers. We are projecting a release in the later part of 2022.

Future of version 6.

Q: How long will Element LIMS v6 be supported? Can we continue to get development for v6?
A: Element LIMS v6 will be supported until at least the next major release after v7. We will continue to repair bugs for the foreseeable future until v6 is retired. EDD, report, and instrument interface development for v6 will continue to be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. No other significant new features or integrations are planned for v6 beyond what is in the development pipeline.

Q: Can we still buy Element LIMS v6 instead of v7?
A: No. Element LIMS v7 is now the standard version available for new installations. There are tremendous advantages to v7.

Q: What will happen to my Element LIMS v6 customizations?
A: Customizations that Promium has provided will in many cases be incorporated into the standard v7 application. If you have questions about a specific customization, and you do not see that item addressed in the v7 documentation or video tutorials, contact Customer Support for further information. Any customizations you have produced yourself may need to be replicated for v7.

Q: We are a new customer and we are still in the process of implementing Element LIMS. What does that mean for us?
A: Each situation will be different. It depends on where you are in the process. Your implementer will work with you to figure out the best course.