QR-CODE PROJECT : Towards better traceability of field sampling data

Abstract

Ensuring traceability of field experimental data or laboratory sampling data to conduct reproducible research is a challenge at the present time. Between the time when geolocalized specimens (biotic or abiotic) are taken, and the time the resulting data ends up in analysis published with a study, many manual operations take place and may generate errors. The French LTSER have joined forces at the national level to propose a solution as generic as possible to this problem of monitoring of the samples and the data associated with them. Compared to existing solutions (such as Laboratory Information Management Systems), we target a robust labeling solution adapted to outdoor working conditions, with the management of stocks and movements of samples. We designed and realized a prototype tested from end to end, using an open source software, cheap Zebra printers (mobile or not) and raspberries as devices. This solution provides sufficient flexibility for the wide variety of existing protocols. In strength is the record of all contextual data associated with the samples, which constitute important parameters of the subsequent analyses. At last, not only traceability is guaranteed, but also a gain of time and a rationalization of the storage of samples that will induce a return on investment.