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Sample Partitions

Sample partitions allow you to split a single received sample into multiple aliquots, each of which can be processed and analyzed independently. The original sample remains the parent record, and each partition is a child with its own ID, analyses, and workflow state.

When to Use Partitions​

Partitioning is appropriate when:

  • Different analyses require different preparation methods — e.g., one aliquot goes to the chemistry bench, another to the microbiology bench, each with different handling requirements.
  • Preserving chain of custody — you want to track which aliquot went where while maintaining a link to the original sample.
  • Instrument constraints — an analysis requires a minimum volume that necessitates separate handling from other tests.
  • Parallel processing — multiple analysts can work on different partitions of the same sample simultaneously.

Creating Partitions​

A sample must be in Received status before it can be partitioned.

  1. Open the received sample by clicking its Sample ID.
  2. Click the Partitions tab on the sample detail page.
  3. Click Add Partition and specify the number of partitions to create.
  4. Assign analyses to each partition as needed.
  5. Click Save.

The partitions are created and appear under the parent sample.

Understanding Partition IDs​

Partition IDs follow a consistent format based on the parent sample ID:

[Parent Sample ID]-P[Partition Number]

For example, if the parent sample is H2O-0001, its partitions would be:

  • H2O-0001-P1
  • H2O-0001-P2
  • H2O-0001-P3

In the Samples listing, a small triangle icon appears next to a partitioned sample. Click the triangle to expand and view all child partitions.

Working with Partitions​

Each partition moves through the standard sample workflow independently:

  • Partitions can have different analyses assigned to them.
  • Results are entered and submitted per partition.
  • Each partition is verified and published independently.
  • The parent sample record is updated as partitions progress.

You can navigate between partitions and the parent sample using the breadcrumbs or the Partitions tab.

Partition Workflow Summary​

Parent Sample (Received)
├── Partition 1 (H2O-0001-P1) → To be Verified → Verified → Published
├── Partition 2 (H2O-0001-P2) → To be Verified → Verified → Published
└── Partition 3 (H2O-0001-P3) → To be Verified → Verified → Published

Each partition follows the same Sample Workflow as a standard sample.

  • Sample Workflow — The standard workflow that each partition follows
  • Registering Samples — Creating samples before partitioning
  • Worksheets — Analyses from partitions can be added to worksheets for batch processing