Managing automation developrent in harmony with the rest of an international company-a QC laboratory manager's perspective.

Significant opportunities and challenges are presented when transitioning from managing laboratory automation development of pharmaceutical products at a single site to collaborative management with multiple domestic and international sites. Prior to integrating Glaxo and Burroughs Wellcome about two years ago, each company had expertise in laboratory automation, but neither had a strategy for consistent business-justified laboratory automation. The approach for international harmonization of automation development of pharmaceutical test methods that the integrated company has adopted is presented. Some items to consider before undertaking a company-wide automation development harmonization programme are offered for consideration. Experiences encountered and future planned benefits are discussed.