To elevate our scientific and manufacturing capabilities and better serve our global clientele, we have developed a robust IT infrastructure. This digital transformation encompasses the adoption of paperless labs and Industry 4.0 principles. By integrating advanced digital technologies and automation, we enhance our research, development, and manufacturing processes, improve data accuracy, and boost overall efficiency.
We have implemented several key initiatives across the business to digitize and automate operations, thereby ensuring quality, compliance, and improved productivity. Some of these initiatives include:
Key initiatives across business
Digitization of Operations through ELNs and eBMR:
- We have extended our digital documentation capabilities to all designated users by completing the rollout of Electronic Lab Notebooks (ELNs) across Development and Manufacturing services, following its successful deployment in Discovery Services. This enables real-time documentation, facilitates audits, and strengthens compliance with Good Research Practices (GRP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and ALCOA+ principles
- The eBMR solution for Biologics and Small Molecule Manufacturing Phase-1 was launched, digitizing Batch Management Records (BMR). Phase-2 aims to further streamline and optimize operations
Streamlining inventory management:
- The sales inventory and operations process was improved by implementing a Material Requirement Planning (MRP) system. This has enabled efficient inventory planning, reducing working capital requirements and costs
- Efficiency in the Chemical Development warehouse was enhanced by transitioning to a real-time system using QR codes and handheld devices, reducing discrepancies and streamlining material storage with the “Single Label” concept
- Our ‘Synventory solution’ was recognized and awarded Gold by the Quality Circle Forum of India (QCFI) for enhancing chemical inventory management. These initiatives further helped optimize inventory levels.
- A fully automated state-of-the-art compound management system was installed to manage compounds and support screening. The system, with a storage capacity of 70,000 compounds and over 300,000 tubes, integrates with the Titian Mosaic application, providing a secure web-based interface for fast-tracking compounds to relevant projects
- The Xybion histology module launched in the Safety Assessment unit, digitally transforms animal study management, minimizing data integrity risks and shortening study timelines
- Multiple proofs of concept for generative AI have been completed for various use cases, including legal contracts, Quality SOPs, equipment validation documents and a Gen AI-based lead generation tool. Some applications were implemented while others are in progress
Enterprise-wide digital initiatives
- A project to reengineer and transform our end-to-end processes from lead identification to revenue collection was initiated to enhance decision-making and visibility for all stakeholders.
- As part of our HR transformation journey, we moved to SAP SuccessFactors Employee Central to enhance the employee experience and provide a more efficient, user-friendly platform for our HR processes
- The Emergency Headcount Management System was enhanced to enable real-time tracking of all employees within the campus and an SOS feature that enables employees to trigger alerts in case of emergencies
- The “Lisyning” platform for efficient customer complaint management was launched
Strengthening our security
Given the nature of our work, protecting our clients’ data by adhering to globally recognized security standards such as ISO 27001 and the NIST framework is imperative. Our Security Operations Center (SOC) monitors the Syngene environment 24/7 for any security threats. We have implemented multiple measures to enhance our overall security:
- Upgraded email and internet security gateways detect and prevent suspicious connections, successfully intercepting nearly all potential phishing emails
- End devices, such as laptops and desktops, are secured by endpoint detection systems utilizing behavior analytics
- A Data Leak Prevention solution monitors and prevents unauthorized transfer of sensitive information through emails, USB, and the internet
- Micro-segmentation is implemented to contain ransomware, dividing the network into smaller sections to limit the spread of an attack
To increase employee awareness, mandatory security training and regular phishing simulation exercises educate users about phishing attacks. We have developed SOPs and playbooks on incident response, defining actions to take in case of a ransomware attack. Additionally, business cyber playbooks outline how to maintain operations during a cyber-attack.
We have also partnered with a firm for incident response (IR) and forensic services, which assists us in isolating, eradicating, and recovering from cyber incidents.
