Social Networking Site for Lab Equipment Helps Researchers Around the World!

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When I accepted the job as manager for the product-focused social networking site LabWrench I had no idea how much social media could impact an industry and help researchers around the world with their equipment problems.

Take for example a question that was asked on LabWrench by a scientist conducting their research in Antarctica, they hadn't planned to work with chlorophyll initially, but thought it may be an interesting addition to the project, because of the location they were in they were unable to source a different piece of equipment, so they found LabWrench and posted their question. Luckily members of the site were able to respond to this person and I'm confident a solution was found.

Today questions continue to pour in from around the world, visitors are asking everything from decoding error messages, seeking manuals, service or repair and many other interesting topics are being discussed.

I've always been a fan of social media I use it both personally and professionally, but I think when it comes to sharing information, connecting with one another and passing along knowledge through a social platform lab professionals have it spot on!

In addition to the visitors of LabWrench who are asking questions, service companies, manufacturers and individuals are all stepping up to the plate to provide answers. This is giving them an opportunity to promote their company as a leader in the industry by being available not only through their own websites but connecting with customers and prospects in a new and exciting format.

I've seen questions asked and answered within minutes, questions that in same cases take hours or days to get when sent through a comment box on a manufacturers website, or when using a techsupport@ type of email, sometimes you may even wait longer on hold when you call the manufacturer directly trying to get a solution to your problem when a quick post to LabWrench could get you an answer in minutes. I'm not saying this is the case every time, this community like every social network has to grow in order to achieve that sort of response but I am confident with the way things are going and the way researchers and industry professionals are assisting each other it won't be long before we get there.

If you work in the Lab industry I encourage you to check out LabWrench at www.LabWrench.com and 'like' us on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/LabWrench - LabWrench is free to join, and super easy to use! 

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