PSDI logo
What We Provide

PSDI Digital Lab Notebook Resources

PSDI Digital Lab Notebook Resources logo

This resource theme provides a range of services and guidance to help users explore and appreciate the importance of digital notebooks in documenting their experiments and research. The guidance introduces the benefits of both generic digital notebooks and Electronic Laboratory Notebooks (ELNs), and the different considerations for implementation in laboratories. The resource theme includes case studies and exemplars. It also links to ELNFinder which is an external service for which PSDI is an active collaborator. This service helps users find the most suitable ELN based on a comprehensive set of criteria.

Services

ELNFinder logoService Icon

ELN Finder

ELNFinder, a resource actively supported by PSDI, assists researchers and staff from research institutions to select the most suitable Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN) software for their needs. Users can easily filter the extensive list of ELNs by key criteria such as import/export capabilities, search functionality, delivery model, data storage, and pricing options. The filters are grouped into useful categories: General, Usability, Core Functions (used for daily work), Extended Functions (used for daily work), Compliance with Legal Requirements, and Integration into Research Data Management (RDM) and IT environments. Users can use these filters to generate a list of ELNs that match their specific requirements.

Guidance

PSDI Digital Lab Notebook Resources logoGuidance Icon

Digital Notebooks and ELNs Guidance

This topic collection offers practical guidance on selecting and implementing electronic notebooks for research. It covers the benefits and challenges of adopting digital notebooks and advice on choosing the right notebook for your project. Additionally guidance is provided on considerations for moving from paper to digital and steps needed to successfully deploy an ELN solution.