Quick Overview
- 1#1: Orchard Software - Delivers a comprehensive laboratory information system for clinical labs handling test ordering, workflow automation, and result management.
- 2#2: SCC Soft Computer - Provides robust LIS solutions supporting high-volume order entry, specimen processing, and integrated reporting for clinical laboratories.
- 3#3: Oracle Health Laboratory (Sunquest) - Enterprise-grade laboratory platform enabling seamless order management, automation, and EHR integration for complex lab operations.
- 4#4: Epic Beaker - Integrated lab module within Epic EHR for efficient physician lab ordering, tracking, and results delivery in healthcare systems.
- 5#5: Oracle Cerner PathNet - Advanced pathology and laboratory information system with sophisticated order orchestration and compliance features.
- 6#6: LigoLab - Cloud-native LIS and operations platform optimizing lab ordering, billing, and end-to-end workflow management.
- 7#7: CrelioHealth - Unified lab management software facilitating digital order collection, real-time tracking, and patient result delivery.
- 8#8: Psyche Systems - Clinical LIS designed for precise order management, regulatory compliance, and efficient lab-to-provider communication.
- 9#9: Xifin LIS - AI-enhanced laboratory information system streamlining order processing, workflows, and revenue optimization.
- 10#10: QBench - Modern cloud LIMS for managing lab orders, samples, and results with customizable workflows and integrations.
We ranked these tools based on functionality (automation, integration, reporting), quality (reliability, scalability), ease of use, and value, ensuring alignment with the varied needs of modern clinical and pathology labs.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines features, usability, and integration of leading lab ordering software tools, including Orchard Software, SCC Soft Computer, Oracle Health Laboratory (Sunquest), Epic Beaker, Oracle Cerner PathNet, and more. Readers will learn to assess workflow efficiency, compatibility, and key functionalities to choose the right tool for their lab's needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Orchard Software Delivers a comprehensive laboratory information system for clinical labs handling test ordering, workflow automation, and result management. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | SCC Soft Computer Provides robust LIS solutions supporting high-volume order entry, specimen processing, and integrated reporting for clinical laboratories. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | Oracle Health Laboratory (Sunquest) Enterprise-grade laboratory platform enabling seamless order management, automation, and EHR integration for complex lab operations. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 4 | Epic Beaker Integrated lab module within Epic EHR for efficient physician lab ordering, tracking, and results delivery in healthcare systems. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 5 | Oracle Cerner PathNet Advanced pathology and laboratory information system with sophisticated order orchestration and compliance features. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.3/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | LigoLab Cloud-native LIS and operations platform optimizing lab ordering, billing, and end-to-end workflow management. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | CrelioHealth Unified lab management software facilitating digital order collection, real-time tracking, and patient result delivery. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | Psyche Systems Clinical LIS designed for precise order management, regulatory compliance, and efficient lab-to-provider communication. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Xifin LIS AI-enhanced laboratory information system streamlining order processing, workflows, and revenue optimization. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | QBench Modern cloud LIMS for managing lab orders, samples, and results with customizable workflows and integrations. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.0/10 |
Delivers a comprehensive laboratory information system for clinical labs handling test ordering, workflow automation, and result management.
Provides robust LIS solutions supporting high-volume order entry, specimen processing, and integrated reporting for clinical laboratories.
Enterprise-grade laboratory platform enabling seamless order management, automation, and EHR integration for complex lab operations.
Integrated lab module within Epic EHR for efficient physician lab ordering, tracking, and results delivery in healthcare systems.
Advanced pathology and laboratory information system with sophisticated order orchestration and compliance features.
Cloud-native LIS and operations platform optimizing lab ordering, billing, and end-to-end workflow management.
Unified lab management software facilitating digital order collection, real-time tracking, and patient result delivery.
Clinical LIS designed for precise order management, regulatory compliance, and efficient lab-to-provider communication.
AI-enhanced laboratory information system streamlining order processing, workflows, and revenue optimization.
Modern cloud LIMS for managing lab orders, samples, and results with customizable workflows and integrations.
Orchard Software
enterpriseDelivers a comprehensive laboratory information system for clinical labs handling test ordering, workflow automation, and result management.
Rules-based order processing engine that automates complex workflows and ensures accurate test ordering
Orchard Software provides a comprehensive Laboratory Information System (LIS) through products like Orchard Harvest, designed to optimize lab ordering workflows from test requisition to results reporting. It enables seamless integration with EMRs/EHRs, automates order management, specimen tracking, and ensures compliance with regulatory standards like CLIA and HIPAA. As a top-tier solution, it supports high-volume clinical labs with advanced rules-based processing for efficient order handling and reduced errors.
Pros
- Extensive EMR/EHR integrations for streamlined lab ordering
- Powerful rules engine for custom automation and error reduction
- Scalable for small to enterprise-level labs with robust reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options
- High implementation costs and time
- Interface can feel dated compared to modern cloud-native apps
Best For
Mid-to-large clinical laboratories requiring a full-featured LIS with advanced order management and regulatory compliance.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $50,000+ annually for mid-sized labs, scaling with modules and volume.
SCC Soft Computer
enterpriseProvides robust LIS solutions supporting high-volume order entry, specimen processing, and integrated reporting for clinical laboratories.
Physician Web Portal with rules-based order management for streamlined, error-free test requisitions
SCC Soft Computer's SoftLab is a comprehensive Laboratory Information System (LIS) that excels in lab ordering by enabling seamless test requisition from physician portals, specimen accessioning, and workflow automation. It integrates deeply with EHRs, HIS, and practice management systems to facilitate electronic order entry, result delivery, and billing. Designed for high-volume clinical labs, it supports advanced rules-based ordering, compliance with CLIA and HIPAA, and scalable operations across multiple sites.
Pros
- Robust integration with EHRs and physician portals for efficient ordering
- Scalable for enterprise-level labs with advanced automation and rules engine
- Strong regulatory compliance and customizable reporting tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- High cost unsuitable for small labs
- Limited mobile accessibility compared to newer cloud-native solutions
Best For
Large hospital labs or reference laboratories handling high-volume orders that require deep EHR integration and workflow scalability.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $100K+ annually based on lab size, modules, and implementation services.
Oracle Health Laboratory (Sunquest)
enterpriseEnterprise-grade laboratory platform enabling seamless order management, automation, and EHR integration for complex lab operations.
Rules-based order management engine that automates complex test cascades and reflex protocols
Oracle Health Laboratory (Sunquest) is a robust laboratory information system (LIS) that excels in managing the full spectrum of lab operations, with strong capabilities in lab ordering, specimen accessioning, and workflow automation. It supports electronic order entry from EHRs, rule-based test ordering, and real-time tracking to ensure efficient processing in high-volume environments. As part of Oracle's health portfolio, it offers seamless integration with broader healthcare systems for improved interoperability and data management.
Pros
- Scalable for enterprise-level labs with high order volumes
- Advanced rules engine for intelligent order management and reflex testing
- Strong interoperability with major EHRs like Epic and Cerner
Cons
- Complex setup and steep learning curve for smaller labs
- High implementation costs and long deployment timelines
- Limited flexibility for rapid customizations without Oracle support
Best For
Large hospital systems and reference laboratories needing a comprehensive, scalable LIS for complex ordering workflows.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing; typically $500K+ annually for mid-sized implementations, plus significant one-time setup fees.
Epic Beaker
enterpriseIntegrated lab module within Epic EHR for efficient physician lab ordering, tracking, and results delivery in healthcare systems.
Bidirectional, real-time integration with Epic EHR for lab orders and results directly in the clinician workflow
Epic Beaker is a comprehensive laboratory information system (LIS) from Epic Systems that manages the full spectrum of lab operations, including electronic test ordering, specimen collection, processing, analysis, and result reporting. It excels in integrating lab workflows directly with Epic's electronic health record (EHR) platform, enabling clinicians to place lab orders and view results seamlessly within the patient chart. Designed for high-volume healthcare environments, Beaker supports advanced order management with rules-based decision support and compliance tools.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Epic EHR for unified ordering and results
- Robust automation for complex lab workflows and high-volume testing
- Strong compliance and quality control features
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation process
- High costs with limited transparency
- Vendor lock-in, less ideal for non-Epic environments
Best For
Large hospitals and integrated health systems already using Epic EHR that require enterprise-scale lab ordering capabilities.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically involves multi-million-dollar implementation fees plus annual subscriptions based on modules and user volume.
Oracle Cerner PathNet
enterpriseAdvanced pathology and laboratory information system with sophisticated order orchestration and compliance features.
Bidirectional integration with Cerner Millennium EHR enabling closed-loop order-to-result workflows without manual data entry
Oracle Cerner PathNet is a robust laboratory information system (LIS) that streamlines the entire lab workflow, from test ordering and specimen collection to processing, resulting, and reporting. Designed for integration with Cerner's Millennium EHR, it supports high-volume lab operations in hospitals and health systems with advanced automation and compliance tools. PathNet excels in managing complex order sets, reflex testing, and quality assurance for anatomic, clinical, and molecular pathology.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Oracle Cerner EHR for unified order management and real-time data sharing
- Comprehensive workflow automation including order entry, specimen tracking, and advanced rules-based testing
- Scalable for enterprise-level labs with strong support for regulatory compliance and analytics
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex configuration requiring extensive training
- High upfront implementation costs and long deployment timelines
- Limited flexibility for non-Cerner environments and customization challenges
Best For
Large hospital networks and integrated delivery systems using Cerner EHR that require a fully integrated, high-volume lab ordering solution.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing with subscription models; implementation often exceeds $1M+ for large deployments, plus ongoing support fees.
LigoLab
enterpriseCloud-native LIS and operations platform optimizing lab ordering, billing, and end-to-end workflow management.
Unified Anatomic Pathology Suite that seamlessly integrates ordering, tracking, and reporting without silos
LigoLab is a comprehensive anatomic pathology laboratory information system (LIS) that streamlines lab ordering through its physician portal, enabling seamless test requisitions, specimen tracking, and result reporting. The platform unifies anatomic and clinical pathology workflows, reducing silos and incorporating AI-driven automation for efficiency. It supports integrations with EMRs and offers tools for compliance and billing within pathology labs.
Pros
- Unified platform for anatomic and clinical pathology ordering and management
- Robust EMR integrations and physician portal for quick ordering
- AI-powered automation to reduce manual errors and speed up workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-pathology users due to specialized features
- Higher implementation costs and time for full deployment
- Less flexible for general clinical labs outside pathology focus
Best For
Mid-to-large anatomic pathology labs needing an integrated ordering and workflow solution.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting around $50,000+ annually based on lab size, modules, and users; contact for demo and quote.
CrelioHealth
specializedUnified lab management software facilitating digital order collection, real-time tracking, and patient result delivery.
DoctorConnect portal enabling remote test ordering, prescription uploads, and instant report access via app or web
CrelioHealth is a cloud-based Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) designed for diagnostic labs, offering comprehensive tools for test ordering, sample tracking, workflow automation, and reporting. It includes a dedicated doctor portal for seamless lab test ordering, integration with EMRs/HIS systems, and mobile apps for phlebotomists to manage collections on-site. The platform streamlines the entire lab ordering process from requisition to results delivery, with features like barcode scanning and real-time status updates.
Pros
- Robust integration with doctor portals and EMRs for efficient ordering
- Mobile app support for field sample collection and real-time tracking
- Comprehensive analytics and customizable reporting tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for full feature utilization
- Pricing is quote-based and can be higher for smaller labs
- Limited focus solely on ordering; more of a full LIMS
Best For
Small to medium-sized diagnostic labs seeking an all-in-one platform for lab ordering integrated with broader workflow management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting around $50-100 per user/month, depending on lab size, modules, and deployment.
Psyche Systems
enterpriseClinical LIS designed for precise order management, regulatory compliance, and efficient lab-to-provider communication.
Advanced rules-based order engine that dynamically processes complex ordering logic and reflex testing
Psyche Systems offers ProLab LIS, a comprehensive laboratory information system designed for clinical labs to manage the entire workflow from order entry to final reporting. It excels in lab ordering by providing advanced accessioning, specimen tracking, and rules-based automation for test ordering across disciplines like chemistry, hematology, and microbiology. The software integrates with analyzers, EMRs, and billing systems while ensuring compliance with CLIA, HIPAA, and CAP standards.
Pros
- Robust rules engine for automated order management
- Extensive instrument and EMR integrations
- Strong compliance and audit trail features
Cons
- Steep learning curve for full customization
- Primarily on-premise with limited cloud options
- Pricing requires custom quotes, less transparent
Best For
Mid-sized clinical laboratories requiring a full-featured LIS with advanced ordering and workflow automation.
Pricing
Custom pricing upon request; typically starts at $25,000+ annually for mid-sized labs, based on modules and users.
Xifin LIS
enterpriseAI-enhanced laboratory information system streamlining order processing, workflows, and revenue optimization.
Integrated Revenue Performance Management (RPM) that automates billing optimization and compliance directly within the LIS workflow
Xifin LIS is a comprehensive, cloud-native laboratory information system tailored for high-volume diagnostic labs, enabling efficient test ordering through provider portals, specimen tracking, and results delivery. It supports complex workflows for anatomic pathology, molecular diagnostics, and clinical testing while integrating seamlessly with EMRs and billing systems. The platform emphasizes revenue cycle optimization alongside core LIS functions, making it ideal for labs focused on operational efficiency and financial performance.
Pros
- Robust integration with EMRs and provider portals for streamlined ordering
- Advanced revenue cycle management embedded within LIS workflows
- Scalable cloud architecture supporting high-volume, complex testing
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-enterprise users
- Custom pricing can be prohibitively expensive for smaller labs
- Overly complex for basic ordering needs
Best For
Large-scale diagnostic labs handling anatomic pathology, molecular testing, and high test volumes that require integrated revenue optimization.
Pricing
Enterprise-level custom pricing upon request, typically subscription-based starting at $50,000+ annually depending on volume and modules.
QBench
specializedModern cloud LIMS for managing lab orders, samples, and results with customizable workflows and integrations.
No-code workflow designer for tailoring lab ordering processes without IT support
QBench is a cloud-based Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) that facilitates lab ordering through its client portal, enabling seamless test ordering, sample tracking, and result delivery. It supports electronic order management, integration with EMR/EHR systems, and customizable workflows for various lab types including clinical, research, and industrial. The platform emphasizes automation to reduce manual errors in ordering and accessioning processes.
Pros
- Robust integrations with EMRs, instruments, and billing systems
- Customizable workflows and client portal for efficient ordering
- Comprehensive reporting and analytics for order tracking
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization
- Pricing can be opaque without a demo
- Limited focus on pure ordering compared to dedicated platforms
Best For
Mid-sized clinical or research labs seeking an all-in-one LIMS with strong ordering and workflow automation.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; modular plans start around $500/month for basic setups, scaling with users and features.
Conclusion
The top 10 lab ordering tools cater to diverse needs, but Orchard Software emerges as the clear leader, offering a comprehensive system that streamlines test ordering, automation, and result management. Close behind, SCC Soft Computer excels with robust solutions for high-volume labs, while Oracle Health Laboratory (Sunquest) stands out for its enterprise-grade EHR integration, making it ideal for complex operations. Together, these three set the benchmark for excellence in lab ordering software.
Ready to transform your lab workflows? Orchard Software’s tailored capabilities make it the top choice—dive in to experience streamlined operations and improved patient care.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison