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Based on the information you find through your research into the instruments and their manufacturers, you should
be able to narrow down the list to one or two choices. Because seeing is believing, ask vendors for a product
demo so you can see how their systems work on your samples. In fact, just receiving their responses will serve as a
good indication of how easy their product is to set up and run. If the demo can be done quickly and without much
difficulty, you can imagine how easy it will be to integrate it into your workflow.
Use the demo as an opportunity to put these products to the test as well as allowing other researchers in your lab to
assess them and provide feedback. Most importantly, take the time to run your samples on the system. Demo assays
are great for showing how the instrument works but are rarely relevant to your own research needs. By doing this,
you will have a few more data points to further support your decision.
Once you have made a final selection, you are ready to begin the process of acquiring a new technology. You can
embark on this endeavor by yourself or you can work with a contract research organization, a collaborator, a vendor,
or through a core facility.
How can I make
an informed decision?
How do I
acquire the technology?
