Accurate, reliable, cost-effective, and quality laboratory performance is crucial to ensuring high-quality data. Performances of analytical laboratories are evaluated and compared through the Integrated Performance Indicator Program (IPIP). The objective of IPIP is to evaluate analytical laboratories based on a set of standardized performance criteria that can then be quantitatively tracked and trended. The SMO uses IPIP reports to monitor and evaluate laboratories. Satisfactory participation in the program is required for continued utilization. Laboratories are evaluated on the following criteria:

• Sample receipt notification,
• Holding times,
• Turnaround times (TAT),
• Sample disposition,
• Contract compliance verification,
• Data deliverables,
• Data validation performance
• Single-Blind performance evaluation (PE) program,
• Double-blind PE program,
• Audit performance/findings, responses, and close-out.

By tracking these performance indicators, the SMO is able to team with the best performing laboratories. In addition, individual laboratory strengths allow the SMO to optimize laboratory selection to the needs of the project.

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