Services

1.  Project Management

Many analytical problems and needs are complex and the goals cannot be accomplished via a simple single analysis.  Instead, a series of analyses, often involving multiple techniques, are needed.  Additionally, monitoring results may reveal a need for altering the original game plan. 

 

Analytical Project Management involves:

• Clearly defining the problem and/or needs

• Providing an analysis plan including which samples should be analyzed, by which techniques, in what order and the timing for this to occur

• Insuring analyses are performed per project deadlines and monitoring results as they become available

• Regularly updating the client on progress

• Providing final report tying together results from all analyses and providing an Executive Summary as these results relate to the overall goal of the project.     

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2.  Analysis Recommendations

An alphabet soup mix of techniques are available when determining which one(s) may be useful in helping you with your particular analytical goals.  Some are used for imaging surfaces while others for imaging internal structure.  Some tools are best suited at providing elemental composition of surfaces while others the sample bulk.  Some techniques can provide detailed depth profiles which monitor concentration versus depth.  Still others provide information on organic species in samples on either the surface or within the sample bulk.  In some cases, samples can be analyzed as is, while others involve extraction or intricate sample prep. 

 

3.  Sampling Recommendations

Determining the right technique(s) is only the first step in achieving one’s analytical goals.  The appropriate samples must be chosen as well.  Typical this involves listening to the problem and understanding the process.  From there one can determine which steps it may be necessary to obtain samples and whether appropriate samples can be obtained at particular points of the process.  The appropriate type of control(s) must also be determined in order for results to be meaningful.   

 

4.  Comprehensive Reporting

Many analytical reports do not sufficiently address client’s goals for performing the analysis.  They simply explain the data.  Analyses can be expensive and it’s important to get the most from them.  This involves reviewing all data acquired and determining what each data set provides regarding the analysis goals.

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5.  Laboratory Staffing Assistance

Each job in an analytical lab is different.  Some require exceptional technical skills while others necessitate people skills due as the person in that role will heavily interface with clients (external or internal).  Additionally, company cultures differ and a good fit in one company may not be in another.  Making the wrong hire can be costly, time-consuming and is ultimately bad for both parties.  Thus, it is necessary to have a hiring process that clearly defines the needs for the position that is being filled and interviews candidates with these specifics in mind.

 

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