Abstract
Erik Rubin, Ph.D., 2009 ALA President
It has been said that Web1.0 reflected the wisdom of man, Web2.0 reflects the wisdom of the masses, and Web3.0 will reflect massive wisdom. Witness LabAutopedia—The ALA Knowledge Network (at www.labautomation.org).
Since its debut in December 2008, the laboratory automation community has enthusiastically embraced and vigorously contributed to the breadth and depth of LabAutopedia, creating an interactive cornerstone for the growing body of knowledge that defines our unique professional specialty. LabAutopedia offers definitions and terminology, references, articles, organizational listings, and other information that can be useful to laboratory automation newcomers and veterans alike.
The key to this dynamic new catalog and learning tool's success is its ability to actively engage individual expertise from across multiple industries. As scientific professionals, our collective wisdom is staggering. Together we are literally well on our way to writing “the book” on laboratory automation—and keeping it current.
ALA members have long found value in the peer-to-peer exchange of information and ideas. JALA, LabAutomation conferences, and member-to-member networking are three well-established examples. LabAutopedia complements the ALA menu of opportunities by creating a practical and accessible technical reference resource that delivers on-demand directly to your desk or benchtop.
As the popularity and success of LabAutopedia continue to skyrocket, we have many people to thank. Each and every ALA member that explores the site is making a contribution simply by being interested, and those who have contributed articles and comments contribute even greater value. Thanks are especially due to the ALA Board of Directors for envisioning the strategic plan that inspired this meaningful and innovative new program, and to ALA Charter Members Steve Hamilton and Mark Russo who led its creation.
With LabAutopedia, ALA is connecting more individuals to new ideas and like-minded communities than ever before. Together, we are lighting a professional path for inspiration and innovation. Please join us on this path. Please visit LabAutopedia today and help us write the book on laboratory automation.
Sincerely,
