Acquire LIMS application for CODIS database to improve efficiency and increase capacity

The Montana Department of Justice Forensic Science Division (FSD) is the agency responsible for analyzing evidence associated with criminal investigations for all state and local law enforcement agencies and medical examiners within the state of Montana. Montana Code Annotated 44-6-102 designates the MT DOJ FSD Laboratory to conduct analysis of DNA database samples collected from all convicted felons.

The biology Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) section at the FSD is working to address the limitations of the current Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). FSD utilizes a LIMS that has limited capabilities for tracking database samples. Exported spreadsheets need to be used to monitor, extract, and report on duplicate samples, failed samples, hits, and turn-around times. Tracking of consumables, reagents, or instrumentation must also be done external to the current LIMS.

MT DOJ FSD is requesting funds to acquire a DNA Database LIMS system that is specific to the requirements, needs, and workflow of a database CODIS section. A CODIS LIMS that accommodates and automates the processes currently performed manually will increase capacity by shifting more analyst time to processing samples and hits, which will improve output and turn-around times.