#United States #San Francisco #ColorWorks #California Academy #entomology

Epson ColorWorks Label Printers Enhance the California Academy of Sciences' Operations

The California Academy of Sciences, one of the foremost scientific institutions in the world, has successfully implemented Epson ColorWorks® on-demand label printers to revolutionize its extensive entomology collection. This collection boasts an impressive 18 million insect specimens, making the need for organization and efficiency paramount. In an age where accurate data management is more critical than ever, the Academy has adopted a modern labeling system that is scientifically robust and accessible.

A New Approach to Labeling

For years, the Academy utilized a geography-based color-coding system which presented various challenges. According to Chris Grinter, the collection manager of entomology, this system had questionable roots and did not effectively serve the collection's needs as scientific names evolved. The new bio-geographic color labeling standard is not only inclusive but also color-blind friendly, making it easier for researchers to navigate the collection. The ColorWorks printer enabled the Academy to scale this change effectively, employing distinct colors and numeric identifiers for ten bio-geographic regions.

Modernizing the Collection

The process of labeling millions of specimens was previously a highly time-consuming task, often requiring sheets of labels to be printed and manually cut. By shifting to ColorWorks label printers in tandem with BarTender® label design software, the Academy has significantly streamlined this operation. Grinter emphasizes, “The biggest saving is time. We don't have enough staff to create custom labels for 18 million insects.” Now, they can design templates once, and then print labels on an as-needed basis.

This transformation allows the Academy to easily incorporate updates into their labeling system, whether they are adjusting scientific names based on DNA analysis or rolling out new region-based identifiers. Each day, the entomology team prints labels efficiently without the previous wastefulness of full letter-sized sheets or lengthy manual cutting processes.

Durability Meets Flexibility

Given that scientific collections endure extensive handling and exposure to various environmental factors, the durability of labels was a critical factor in this transition. Unlike conventional thermal labels that tend to degrade over time, Epson's inkjet technology produces long-lasting labels that withstand both heat and moisture.

After utilizing perforated label stock, the Academy has found that consistency and reliability remain high even after printing thousands of labels. They also employ Epson's WorkForce® WF-M1030 printer for producing labels for containers like jars and vials, significantly improving the clarity and longevity of their labeling.

Enhancing Research Accessibility

The need for efficient organization is crucial for researchers seeking specific specimens. The clarity and standardization achieved through this new labeling system enable researchers to quickly access the exact trays that hold desired specimens, facilitating scientific inquiries and studies. As Grinter points out, “When a researcher asks, 'What is this bug?' we need to know exactly which tray holds that specimen.” This clear labeling system directly correlates to improved accessibility across the Academy's evolving collection.

The move to on-demand printing not only eliminates the need for outsourcing label production, which was impractical, but it also allows for quick adaptations whenever scientific names or classifications change.

Looking Ahead

As the Academy looks to further enhance its operations, plans are underway to integrate its database systems more seamlessly with the BarTender label printing software in the coming year. This commitment to thoughtful technology adoption signifies the Academy's dedication to advancing scientific research while improving accessibility and stewardship of its natural history collections.

In Grinter's words, “We have invested in a piece of technology that simply works and makes everyone's job easier.” The California Academy of Sciences showcases how embracing modern technology can greatly improve organizational efficiencies while holding a treasure trove of scientific heritage.

About the California Academy of Sciences

Founded in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park, the California Academy of Sciences is a leading scientific and educational institution focused on regenerating the natural world through science, learning, and collaboration. It hosts a world-class aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum under one roof, also offering innovative programs in environmental education and scientific research.