Using an Electronic Lab Notebook
An Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN) is a software tool that in its most basic form replicates an interface much like a page in a paper lab notebook. In an ELN you can enter protocols, observations, notes, and other data using your computer or mobile device.
ELNs offer several advantages over traditional paper notebooks, including:
- facilitate good data management practices
- provide data security
- support auditing
- allow collaboration
Some ELNs can also manage inventories of samples, reagents, and other supplies, as well as keeping track of equipment and equipment maintenance schedules. Additionally, some ELNs provide specialist scientific tools for chemical drawing or molecular biology.
HMS Academic and Research Integrity has developed clear guidelines for using ELNs at Harvard Medical School.
Members of the LMA research community can find specific ELN support services on our ELNs at LMA page.
Answering Your ELN Questions
How and why do I benefit from using an ELN?
- ELNs support FAIR Principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable), which are recognized by the research community, including the National Institutes of Health
- They enable oversight by PIs or Core Facility managers
- Data and documentation can be easily shared with collaborators
- They eliminate issues with poor handwriting and damaged paper notebooks
- ELNs can prevent data from being lost when researchers move on
- Some ELNs can be integrated with Mendeley, Dataverse, and PubMed (and other applications) making publishing and the research process easier
How do I overcome difficulties of using computers while performing experiments?
- Providing dedicated tablets for use by researchers while in the lab
- Using voice input or optical character recognition (OCR) plugins
- Provide detailed guidance on where to find raw data files and results
- Automatic date and time stamping to prove provenance and improve record-keeping
- Integrating the ELN with other research software to capture data and information
How do I ensure my data is secure?
- ELNs generally provide excellent security and auditing features
- Utilize 2-factor authentication and keep unique credentials
- Ensure you have a data security plan in place following guidance from your institution
- Many ELNs provide compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11
How long will setting up an ELN take?
- It takes time and thought to set up an ELN. You and your PI will address how data will be organized and shared. However, the time spent doing this is a very worthwhile investment.
- If you make use of optional inventory features, it can take time and effort to set up but will save time on linking experiments to samples and managing experimental reagents and supplies. Individuals can set up their own inventories for personal use. Lab managers might take the lead in setting up shared inventories for the whole lab.
ELN Recommended Practices
Top Practices
General recommendations for keeping a research notebook- Follow institutional onboarding and standard operating procedures for using the ELN. Institutions should offer:
- Regular training sessions
- Access to vendor documentation and videos
- Clear information about offboarding and obtaining copies of notebook entries as needed
- Opportunities to provide feedback to improve platform functionality and use
- Confirm the notebook is set up with the appropriate user groups and permissions. Each lab members notebook should be shared with the PI.
- Think about how you want to organize your notebook as you get started using the ELN
- Is there a preferred organizational structure for the lab or project?
- Are there recommended naming standards for notebook entries and research data that are used in the lab or by your collaborators?
- Not that using keywords or tags can assist with search-ability across notebook entries
- Maintain consistent and timely data collection and documentation
- Follow recommended lab notebook practices
External Links
General resources for using research notebooks- NIH Keeping a Lab Notebook (2015): NIH webinar recording on general Lab Notebook Best Practices
- Keeping Lab Notebooks in the NIH Intramural Research Program (2024 PDF): NIH presentation slides on lab notebook principles and practices
- Conduct of Research in the Intramural Research Program at NIH (2025 PDF): NIH general laboratory record-keeping guidelines and policies
- Ten simple rules for implementing electronic lab notebooks: PLOS article offering guidance on implementing an ELN
- eLabJournal Best Practice Use Guide: eLabJournal best practices documentation
- LabLog Electronic Lab Notebook Best Practices: A purchasing guide
- LabArchives: Best practices for research data management: Research Guide on LabArchives from University of Michigan
- How do you manage your electronic laboratory notes?: Cloud vs On-premises
- Selecting an ELN to Maximize IP Protection: Focus on safeguarding Intellectual Property
RDMWG Trainings
Online classes for the Harvard community- Find data management training, including slides and recordings, on the RDM Seminar Series page.
- Lab notebook specific seminars: