Create protocol steps

Protocol steps define the ordered actions performed when a protocol version is executed.

Each protocol step can combine instructions, timing, requirements, and structured execution controls.

Add a step

1. Open the draft protocol version.
2. Select Add step.
3. Enter a concise action-oriented title.
4. Write complete instructions, including preparation, action, expected result, and safety or quality notes.
5. Configure timing and duration.
6. Add required ingredients, tools, species, plasmids, or other supported resources.
7. Configure structured data capture.
8. Add inventory behavior or step-specific overrides where required.
9. Attach reference files.
10. Save and review the step order.

Timing

Use timing fields to represent the expected duration, minimum wait, scheduled window, or delay before later work. Test the resulting batch or sample schedule in the organization’s timezone.

Requirements and inventory

For each required resource, verify quantity, unit, optional concentration, and effective inventory behavior:

• Consume deducts physical quantity after successful completion.
• Reserve requires availability without depletion.
• None records the requirement without an inventory effect.

Structured forms

Use system forms for supported standard measurements and custom forms for organization-specific data. Mark required fields deliberately and test validation for valid, invalid, missing, and boundary values.

Step quality checklist

• Instructions can be followed without relying on unwritten knowledge.
• Units and quantities are unambiguous.
• Timing reflects actual laboratory practice.
• Required evidence is defined.
• Inventory effects are correct.
• The expected result and exception path are clear.
• The step has been tested in a non-production execution.