A NEW initiative to simplify and speed up the process of laboratory outsourcing promises to take the stress out of tendering.
The Network Scientific Directory is an online matchmaking system that enables users to both source and submit tenders for a wide range of laboratory services.
Individuals can submit a tender request to every one of the 800+ laboratories listed in the site’s database, receive quotes from suitable laboratories by email, then make their choice and award the contract.
The site is the brainchild of Zara Watson, a young British scientist and entrepreneur: “laboratory-directory.com was developed in response to the frustration experienced when trying to source contract laboratories. Our aim is to make laboratory outsourcing hassle-free, convenient and efficient, allowing companies to concentrate on their core business activities.”
With outsourcing a growing trend across many industries, the new site has been welcomed by some of its early adopters.
Jennifer Day, laboratory manager at Sheffield Assay Office Analytical Services, said: “laboratory-directory.com is just what we’ve been waiting for. We waste so many hours trying to source suitable contract laboratories for specific projects, contacting individuals on both a commercial and technical level then waiting for and even having to chase quotes. This new site is very user-friendly and will make the whole process much less time consuming.”
Registration for both members and laboratories is free. Currently operating for UK laboratories only, Scientific Network says it plans to extend the site into Europe in 2013.