Can you recommend sample tracking software for coordinating seed assay results and chain-of-custody in a QC lab?

Yes — for a QC lab handling seed assays, you’ll usually want software that covers sample accessioning, chain-of-custody, test result tracking, audit trails, and role-based approvals. Here are solid options, grouped by fit:

Best-fit lab systems

1) LabWare LIMS

• Strong for regulated QC environments
• Excellent chain-of-custody, audit trail, sample lifecycle tracking
• Good for integrating assay results, specifications, and reports
• Best if you need a robust enterprise LIMS

2) STARLIMS

• Good workflow management and compliance features
• Supports sample tracking, custody history, electronic signatures, and reporting
• Often used in regulated labs and seed/ag/food testing environments
• Best if you want a mature LIMS with configurable workflows

3) Thermo Fisher SampleManager LIMS

• Very strong sample management and data traceability
• Good for multi-step assays and QC release workflows
• Solid integration options with instruments and ERP systems
• Best for larger labs with complex data flows

4) LabVantage LIMS

• Flexible configuration, good auditability
• Handles sample tracking, QC specs, and chain-of-custody well
• Strong in labs needing configurable but structured workflows
• Best if you want flexibility without building from scratch

Mid-market / simpler options

5) Benchling

• Excellent sample registry and collaboration
• Good for tracking samples and workflows, though not always as “QC-compliance-heavy” as traditional LIMS
• Better for R&D or hybrid labs than strict regulated QC
• Best if you want modern UX and lighter deployment

6) QBench

• More lightweight than the enterprise systems above
• Good sample tracking, workflow automation, and reporting
• Often attractive for labs that want a practical LIMS without huge overhead
• Best if you want faster implementation and lower complexity

7) CloudLIMS

• Cloud-based and relatively easy to deploy
• Can handle sample accessioning, chain-of-custody, and test result management
• Good for smaller labs or teams with budget constraints
• Best if you want lower-cost cloud deployment

If you need strict chain-of-custody / compliance

Prioritize platforms that support:

• Immutable audit trails
• Electronic signatures
• Role-based access control
• Sample login and barcode labeling
• Custody transfer logs
• Result review and approval workflows
• Instrument integration
• 21 CFR Part 11 / ISO 17025 support if applicable

My quick recommendation

• Large/regulatory QC lab: LabWare, STARLIMS, SampleManager, or LabVantage
• Smaller lab or faster rollout: QBench or CloudLIMS
• If you also need R&D-style collaboration: Benchling

If you want, I can narrow this down to:

1. best software for a seed testing lab specifically,
2. lowest-cost options, or
3. a comparison table by features like chain-of-custody, barcode support, and audit trails.