An Electronic Research Notebook (ERN) is a tool for recording, managing and sharing your research. It's like a digital version of a paper notebook, but with extra features such as:
- secure sharing and collaboration
- easy search and organisation
- automatic backups
- password protection
- integration with other tools and systems
ERNs are sometimes called Electronic Lab Notebooks (ELNs), but you can use them in any research setting – not just in labs.
On this page
- Alternatives to ERNs
- Features to consider
- Choosing an ERN
- Testing an ERN
- Planning for the future
- University approach to ERNs
- Help and Support
Alternatives to ERNs
Tools that mimic ERNs
Some researchers use tools like Evernote, OneNote or Dropbox to create their own version of an ERN. This can work well if you:
- organise your files carefully
- manage access and version control
- watch out for software updates that might disrupt your work
ERNs and LIMS: what’s the difference?
A Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) is designed to manage lab resources like samples and reagents.
Some ERNs started as part of a LIMS. These may feel more like databases than notebooks. If you need both, either choose a combined tool or use separate tools that are easier to manage.
Features to consider
There are several important things to consider when choosing an ERN. You’ll need to ensure that your ERN works well for you.
Free options
Many ERNs offer free versions for academic use. If you consider one of these, check if there are storage or feature limits. Some may require a paid upgrade to enable collaboration or integration features. Make sure they keep your data secure.
Tools for equations, drawings and timestamps
You may need:
- equation editors
- chemical structure tools
- sketching or drawing tools
- automatic timestamps
Check if these features are built in or available through integrations.
Protecting research integrity
Look for features that help ensure trust and transparency, including:
- read-only access
- page locking
- full edit history
Collaboration and sharing
If you work in a group, check:
- how notebooks are shared
- whether you can control access
- if external collaborators need an account
Interoperability and formats
Make sure the ERN:
- supports open file formats
- allows easy export of your data
- handles proprietary formats you use
Open research
Some ERNs support open research. They may let you publish parts of your notebook or share data in public repositories.
Storage, backups and data security
Most ERNs use cloud services to store your data. This offers:
- automatic updates
- no need for local servers
- secure, GDPR-compliant hosting (if based in the EU)
Local storage may be better if you need tighter control of your data.
Do not assume backups happen automatically. Check:
- how often your data is backed up
- how long backups are kept
- if you need to create your own backups
Make sure you know:
- where your data is stored
- if the platform meets GDPR or other compliance needs
- how long deleted data is kept
- how to meet funder or ethical retention rules
Choosing an ERN
When choosing an ERN, think about:
- your budget
- whether you work alone or in a group
- whether you need supervisor features (such as dashboards)
- compatibility with your systems and devices
- any data protection or funder requirements
TU Darmstadt’s ELN Finder can help you find an ERN that meets your needs.
Testing an ERN
Before choosing an ERN, check:
- that the interface is simple and easy to use
- it supports what you need to write, draw or upload
- storage limits and file format support
- integration with your existing tools and workflows
- how easily you can manage access and share work
Planning for the future
No ERN is guaranteed to last forever. Choose one that:
- allows easy export of your work
- supports open file formats
- is updated regularly
- meets your future needs
Most ERNs allow you to:
- export monthly PDFs to create an archive
- save copies in more than one location
- export machine-readable files (like CSV or XML)
University approach to ERNs
In 2017, a working group at the University explored the possibility of subscribing to a University-wide ERN. Trial access was given to four products for evaluation: OneNote, Hivebench, LabArchives, Benchling. Results suggested that none of these four products would suit all users. The University Library reviewed ERN provision in 2019. It concluded that it was still not appropriate to subscribe to a University-wide ERN. We then created the guidance on this web page to increase awareness of ERNs to and guide researchers when choosing one. Please contact us if you would like to see the case studies produced for each of the trialled ERNs. We would like to hear from University researchers who use ERNs or are considering purchasing one
Help and support
You can get help, advice and support on ERNs from:
- the Research Data Management team
- your Faculty or Departmental librarian
- your Departmental computer officer