Automation of large-scale compound storage, biological and chemical assays, and many other biopharmaceutical R&D processes have prompted the need for immediate and regular determination of equipment performance levels. The Automatic Metric Monitoring Program (AMMP) in Amgen Research is designed to fill this need. Standardized tests are performed at regular intervals with results instantaneously retrieved, analyzed, and stored in a database. Critical information is automatically tracked using control charts allowing immediate notification via e-mail alerts when problems or nonconforming performance is discovered. System usage and errors are automatically compiled with tabulated results provided at regular intervals and e-mail alarms issued for nonconforming operation. AMMP now provides researchers with needed real-time feedback on the performance of their automation systems.
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