EasyPip: an equipment-agnostic software application to transform automated liquid handlers into efficient walk-up tools for routine plate-based pipetting

We developed EasyPip, a proprietary software application, to easily configure and efficiently process common plate-based pipetting tasks on various automated liquid handlers. EasyPip can handle tasks such as reagent addition, replication, hit picking, and intra-plate transfers in 96-well microtiter plates, all configurable on demand and at the single well level. It allows the ad-hoc design of complex workflows, like serial dilutions or sample plate preparation, without requiring programming knowledge by simply combining multiple tasks. EasyPip uses a consistent front-end across different high-end automated liquid handlers, including those from Tecan, Hamilton and Beckman-Coulter, and operates independently of other workflows, which enables its use by lab associates without additional training. The software application generates worklists based on user input, which are then processed automatically by the connected liquid handler through a dedicated method script. EasyPip enhances the efficient use of lab automation equipment by enabling immediate application of routine tasks, thus reducing idle times and addressing major barriers to the flexible use of lab automation in research and development settings.