Protocol logging habits for complex research schedules

Posted by vialmind in Dosing and Protocols

Hey everyone I am trying to figure out how other researchers track multi compound protocols over long periods of time. Between tracking exact microgram amounts and timing different delivery windows my spreadsheet is starting to look like a chaotic mess of notes and random numbers. I want to see what systems actually work for keeping clean empirical records without spending an hour every day updating logs. Are you guys using custom database software or just sticking to old school paper lab notebooks for your daily observations? Would love to hear how some of the more organized folks here structure their tracking templates so I can stop guessing and start getting clean data.

8 Comments

amberrat

You guys are overcomplicating a simple hobby with enterprise software setups.

cyclefox

Paper notebooks are the only way to go because screens always die right when you are in the middle of weighing things out.

stackgal27

Just write your dates with waterproof ink and you will be fine.

protocol88

If your data logging takes longer than the actual research session you are doing it wrong.

vialclub

Honestly I just use a heavily customized notion database with relational tags for each vial lot number.

vialclub

Everything goes in one master table so I can filter by expiration or compound type instantly.

vialmind

That notion idea sounds pretty solid actually. Do you track individual reconstitution dates right inside the same table or keep that separate?

vialdev

I tried paper for a month and spilled bacteriostatic water all over my best page so never again.