An introduction to hardware, software, and other information technology needs of biomedical biobanks

Biobanks support medical research by facilitating access to biospecimens. Biospecimens that are linked to clinical and molecular information are particularly useful for translational biomedical research. Tracking and managing the biospecimens and their associated data are therefore crucial tasks in the functioning of a biobank. Adequate computing hardware, efficient and comprehensive biobanking software, and cost-effective data storage are needed for proper management of biospecimens. As biobanks build up extensive stores of specimens and patient data, ethical considerations also inevitably arise. Herein, we describe some basic considerations for establishing a biobanking information technology infrastructure that a beginning biobanker needs. Finally, we also discuss trends and future needs in biobanking informatics.