Abstract: Methods of controlling diagnostic laboratory systems include providing one or more modules, each of the one or more modules configured to process a specimen container and/or analyze a specimen; providing middleware configured to communicate with the one or more modules, wherein the middleware is configured to generate instructions to change an operational state of at least one of the one or more modules to enabled or disabled; generating, by the middleware, one or more instructions to change the operational state of at least one of the one or more modules; and changing the operational state of at least one of the one or more modules in response to one or more instructions generated by the middleware. Systems including a middleware server configured to carry out the methods are provided as are other aspects.

Abstract: Workflows for testing in automated laboratory environment are managed and controlled to permit prioritization and dependencies to be implemented for individual tests. Test groups can be specified to include analytical and non-analytical test requests. Instrument test status and/or sample location is used to determine whether workflow criteria is met. Each test can be assigned a completion criteria, which can foe used to retake other tests or operations contingent on the outcome of another test. Automation of the laboratory is enhanced with greater flexibility in controlling testing.