dynamic map-based visualization tools for complex ...€¦ · dynamic map-based visualization tools...

Dynamic Map-Based Visualization Tools for Complex Inventory/Freezer Management

5/23/2014 www.biolincc.nhlbi.nih.gov

Open Source Informatics Developed by NHLBI BioLINCC

Joseph Krzystan1, Carol A. Giffen1, Elizabeth Wagner2, John Adams1, Leslie Carroll1

1. Information Management Services, Inc. Calverton MD, United States 2. NIH/NHLBI, Bethesda MD, United States

NHLBI-BioLINCC

Established by NHLBI to provide IT solutions supporting the

NHLBI Biorepository

63 historical collections

~4.1 million biospecimens

Data-driven management of a dynamic inventory

Maximize utility of available data

Efficient specimen retrieval and storage

Large scale incoming/outgoing shipments

Inventory improvement initiatives (consolidation, freezer retirement…)

Facilitating repository functions demands continuous

evaluation across all levels of the inventory


Traditional Inventory Management

Reports from LIMS

Shipment Manifests

Custom reports

Holistic approach requires a full-scope view of task at hand: 1. Where are the targets in relation to one another? 2. How densely packed are they and across how many containers? 3. What is the most efficient path to task fulfillment?


Essential sources of information but multiple sources/reports are generally needed to answer the large scale and big picture questions with the greatest impact

Inventory Visualization Tool

Developed to expand on existing reporting capability and expedite inventory survey and assessment efforts

Query based: Visualize and evaluate entire repository or specific selections/containers/studies

Implemented on top of existing LIMS database using open-source software

Existing LIMS database

http://www.bsisystems.com

Python – Django: Framework

https://www.djangoproject.com

Javascript - D3.js: Presentation

http://d3js.org


Visualizing the Inventory


Use Case #1 – Pulling specimens for a request

Using spatial data to assess full-scope of task


Summary of results

Use Case #2 – Exploring collection density and available space

Containers with few specimens highlighted

Identify empty space


Identify freezer space not currently configured in LIMS or sparsely populated by specimens

Enable rapid assessments for consolidation at a box, rack, or freezer level

Mouse over containers for details

Use Case #3 – Study specific examination and consolidation

Used to rapidly identify storage patterns across collections

Evaluation of selection as percentage of container facilitates bulk movements


Visualizing by absolute count Visualizing by percent of container

Expedited the design of a rack level culling initiative of ~1 million specimens

Looking ahead

Integration with interactive repository building layout detailing physical locations of freezers

Expand as requirements arise and new applications are discovered

Tool is only limited by available data

Pilot/Proof of Principle phase of tool


Acknowledgements


Kathi Shea Caroline Anderson Leah Marchesani

Lisbeth Welniak Kevin Meagher and the BSI Team

Questions/Comments?

Contact us at: [email protected]

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