Electronic laboratory notebooks (ELN): Managers of the life cycle of research objects

Abstract

This paper is a reflection on the nature of scientific knowledge production. Being a human process, its characteristics are particularly complex and difficult to establish with standard procedures. Despite the differences between disciplines, the research processes always includes the common application of the scientific method to obtain results in the form of data and publications. In this article the life cycle model of research objects is reviewed. To be understood, data need to be contextualized, something that is difficult if the necessary information is not added at the time they are produced. Electronic laboratory notebooks (ELN), such as LabArchives, LabGuru, and ROHub, have begun to appear in academic settings to facilitate comprehensive knowledge management. It is recommended that ELN systems are used to guarantee research data preservation.