What is it?
The Open Laboratory Data Repository (OpenLDR) is a set of definitions to consolidate and report on data from multiple laboratories. A major design goal of the OpenLDR is to accommodate data from laboratories which use disparate Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS). The OpenLDR defines a simple, easy to understand data model in order to simplify the merging of data, data analysis and the creation of report templates. The OpenLDR design specification can be implemented utilizing any relational database. While the design is “open” the data is not and is expected to be securely hosted by the aggregating organization (e.g. Ministry of Health).
How does the data get merged?
The design allows for data to flow into the database using different methods in order to make it as easy as possible to get data from disparate systems.
Direct inserts from LIMS vendor into database
Import of standardized files
Custom imports
Web API
A LIMs vendor can insert data directly into the repository as long as they follow the data population rules. A standardized XML file format has been defined to allow data providers a standardized target and thus a single engine can be created for importing any data supplied in that format. The other option is for a custom data import program to be created to import the data from text files. A web API is also being tested to allow for programmatic updates.
Why Use the OpenLDR specification?
Simplicity - Significant thought has gone into keeping it simple and easy to understand.
Design Time - Saves time initially as well as taking into account issues you may not have considered.
Examples - Database creation scripts and report templates provided as examples with more coming from other contributors.
Standardization - Keeps the target stable.
Flexibility - Key concepts in the design are flexible and it can also be easily extended without disrupting the core design principles.
Community - Other people will be contributing to the success of the project; including you. You don’t have to think of everything and do everything yourself.
Cost - All of these reasons lower the initial development cost and long term maintenance costs.