Table 2. Prerequisites for the implementation of an eLN.

Note that prerequisites vary with type of eLN and number of users (see Table 1).

Requirement	Comment
Staff willing and able to use the eLN	Note that most systems use the English language for menus and help functions, and user training may be needed for complex LIMS-eLNs
IT infrastructure:     Computer access for all users     Mobile devices for all users and WLAN     Server to host ELN     Server to host databases and uploaded data     Backup system and load balancer	Only if used on mobile devices Required unless only few individual users use cloud-based system Depends on number of users/volume of data
Personnel for maintenance     On-site support     User training     Administrator of eLN/server Financial     License fees or costs for the development custom system     Costs for the IT infrastructure (especially storage)     Costs for the staff supporting and administrating the eLN	Relevant for larger installations in workgroups and institutions Some commercial systems have basic cloud-based solutions that are free of charge; some systems are unrestricted freeware.