The optimal metabolomics workflow depends on source material and application. Various technologies and methods can be used to acquire raw data, which then provides the starting point for computational analysis. See text for details. MRSI magnetic resonance spectral imaging, GC gas chromatography, LC liquid chromatography, CE capillary electrophoresis, MS mass spectrometry, NMR nuclear magnetic resonance, MALDI-MSI matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometric imaging.