Since
July, Lancaster Laboratories has distributed data packages
electronically on Compact Discs (CDs) rather than through
bulky packages of paper documents weighing as much as 25
pounds. In addition to their smaller size, the electronic
files provide many benefits that wouldn’t be possible
with the conventional paper data packages.
According to Anjan Mittal, manager of Pharmaceutical Quality
Systems, the CDs provide an exact copy of the original data
in a PDF file instead of a paper copy of the same data.
The data are the same in either case; only the method of
reproducing the data differs. However, electronic data packages
offer multiple advantages to recipients. For example: |
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Use
of CDs shortens turnaround time because less time is required
between data generation and data package delivery. |
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The
CD is labeled with Lancaster Labs’ sample numbers and
data package version number, which helps in data tracking. |
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The
electronic data are in an easily accessible PDF file using
Adobe Acrobat Reader. |
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The data package is better organized and includes a content
page with hyperlinks for each section that allow the user
to go directly to specific data of interest. (Figure 1)
Figure 1: Example
of a content page displaying hyperlinks
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Data
package also includes an index page, which allows user to
correlate data package pages with specific samples in a
submission. (Figure 2)
Figure 2: Example
of an Index page listing data package pages for each sample.
This example also displays the data package version number
and the sequential page numbering on the top. |
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Each page contains the data package version and the sequential
page number, which helps keep data in order. |
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CD data packages take less storage space for filing and
archiving than paper data packages. A desk drawer could
store dozens of CDs, whereas the same number of paper data
packages would fill a wall of shelves. |
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Users
can print multiple copies of a data package as desired and
can also forward the file to others who need access. |
Art Pezzica, director
of Pharmaceutical Quality Systems, reports that the laboratory
sends out about 30 data packages in CD format every day
with no additional charges to clients. “We’ve
had universally positive feedback from clients and auditors,”
he says, noting that electronic data packages users are
especially pleased by the organization provided by the content
and index pages.
According to both Mittal and Pezzica, providing data packages
electronically on Compact Disc format is one more initiative
in Lancaster Labs’ continual commitment to improve
services and quality.
For questions about electronic data CDs, please contact
your client services representative. |
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