eLabFTW vs IDBS E-WorkBook

eLabFTW is an electronic lab notebook for storing experiments and protocols, organizing records, and supporting collaboration. Users can tag and categorize entries, search them, manage lab resources and quantities, link resources to experiments, and book shared equipment with its Scheduler. One instance can host several teams, with entry-level visibility and editing controls plus Team Groups permissions. Research data can be imported and exported in formats including PDF, ZIP, CSV, JSON, and ELN. Its REST API lets external programs read and write data, and documentation links to a Python library. Listed integrations include PubChem, the Bloxberg blockchain, and Keeex timestamping workflows; authentication options include LDAP, SAML2, and two-factor authentication. The self-hosted software costs nothing under AGPLv3, with no features behind a paywall. It must be installed on a server and configured and maintained by a systems administrator; the site recommends managed hosting for people unfamiliar with server administration. Paid options include PRO Support at €3,000 a year and PRO Hosting plans from €3,200 a year to €8,700 a year.

IDBS E-WorkBook combines electronic lab notebook, laboratory execution system and LIMS capabilities for research and development. Its ELN captures experimental data and supports searching structured and unstructured content, tagging, comments, dashboards and collaboration on experiments and projects. Version control, audit trails and multi-step digital signatures support compliance workflows; IDBS states that the offering is 21 CFR Part 11 and GxP compliant. The Chemistry module supports compound and reaction drawing, reagent lookup, amount calculations, product registration and compound or substructure searches. Instrument Reader can capture measurements from networked lab equipment directly into the notebook, while inventory tracking records equipment and raw material use across experiments. The product supports cloud and on-premise deployments, with browser access and APIs for connecting systems and instruments. E-WorkBook Request is a managed SaaS environment with a guaranteed 99% uptime and a REST API. IDBS says its cloud is built on Amazon Web Services and identifies ISO 9001 and ISO 27001 management systems, as well as SOC 1, SOC 2 and SOC 3 data-center certifications. Pricing is available on request.