Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to improve the sample registration management at the Central Analytical Laboratory (CAL) of Johor Plantations Group Berhad by introducing a change in the existing system from a manual to a paperless system. The primary aim is to enhance operational efficiency, accuracy, and customer satisfaction.

Methods: The PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) method incorporates Lean and Kaizen strategies to eliminate waste in the current manual system. The team also utilized other tools such as Ishikawa Diagrams, Multi-Voting, and Value Stream Mapping (VSM) in problem identification and solution development. After some pilot studies, the Excel-based digital registration system was implemented and tested through a pilot trial, followed by training and feedback collection from the users.

Results:  The transition to a digital system significantly improved process efficiency, reducing the Value-Added Time (VAT) from 151.32 minutes to 64.35 minutes and Non-Value-Added Time (NVAT) from 2643.18 minutes to 0.92 minutes, achieving a Process Efficiency (%PE) increase from 5.41% to 98.59%. User feedback indicated high satisfaction with the new system, citing improvements in data accuracy, turnaround time, and overall operational efficiency.

Conclusions: The implementation of a paperless sample registration system at CAL has led to substantial improvements in operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of digital transformation in laboratory settings, aligning with sustainability goals and contributing to cost savings and corporate social responsibility. The findings underscore the importance of continuous improvement and the potential for further enhancements through integration with advanced laboratory information systems.