[labnetwork] Feedback on Transition to iLab from FOM

[Burak Birkan]

Dear Esta, We have been using the iLab Platform for three years now. I haven’t used FOM before, so unfortunately I can’t offer a comparison on that front.
In our experience, configuring the soft and hard interlock points—and understanding how they work—was the most time‑consuming part. You really need to dig into the details of your equipment software and confirm whether it supports the “soft” interlock methodology. In the end, we implemented an in‑house “screen‑lock” file to prevent unauthorized access; when that wasn’t possible, we relied on the instrument’s own screen lock.
Financial models vary from core to core, but it’s important to be very clear about your requirements at the start of the implementation.
If you have any detailed questions, please feel free to email me. I’ll be happy to help.
Best regards.

Burak Birkan, Ph.D
bbirkan at ku.edu.tr<mailto:bbirkan at ku.edu.tr>
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From: labnetwork <labnetwork-bounces at mtl.mit.edu> On Behalf Of Abelev, Esta
Sent: Monday, May 4, 2026 11:49 AM
To: labnetwork at mtl.mit.edu
Subject: [labnetwork] Feedback on Transition to iLab from FOM

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Dear Colleagues,
A few years ago, Pitt implemented iLab as a platform for managing university shared user facilities. Our time to transition has now come, and we are currently preparing to implement iLab in both our cleanroom and characterization facilities, which have previously operated on FOM.
As we continue to evaluate iLab, we are finding that some key features available in FOM are lacking in iLab, which may make our operations more complex and, in some cases, more manual.
I wanted to ask whether any of you have been in a similar situation—specifically, being asked to transition to iLab—and whether you were able to address these challenges or provide feedback to your administration. Any insights or lessons learned would be greatly appreciated.
Please feel free to reply directly.
Best regards,  Esta

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