# Sample Plans (LIMS)

When creating a new *Batch*, together the *Sample Plan* associated with the *Spec Data* record define the *Lab Samples* and *Lab Tests* that will be automatically created. The *Spec Data* (and associated *Sample Plan*) can be automatically selected by LIMS if a *Spec Data* (referencing a *Sample Plan*) has been correctly mapped to the same *Material*/*Country*/*Organization* combination as selected on the *Batch*.

## **Sample Plan Version Control**

*Sample Plan* records are version controlled via LIMS [Change Analysis](/en/lr/51412707/). Once these records are in the *Effective* state they become locked and cannot be edited. Instead, you must create a new version using the *Create New Version* action on the record.

When a *Sample Plan* is created, Veeva LIMS automatically creates an associated *LIMS Change Analysis* record in the background. As part of the Change Analysis process, records referenced by the new version of the *Sample Plan* (for example, *Spec Data* records) will also have a new version created (managed by the Change Analysis).

## **Creating Sample Plans**

To create a *Sample Plan* record:

1. Navigate to **Business Admin > Sample Plans**, or to a custom object tab.
2. Click **Create**.
3. Enter a **Name**.
4. Click **Save**.

### Adding Lab Sample Definitions to a Sample Plan

Each *Sample Plan* record contains one or more *Lab Sample Definitions*, which outline the sample collection procedure. During sample initiation, LIMS creates *Lab Sample* records according to the *Sample Definition* records on the *Sample Plan*, and the *Sample Plan* is associated with the [*Spec Data*](/en/lr/51412702/) record.

To create a *Lab Sample Definition*:

1. Navigate to the *Lab Sample Definition* section of a *Sample Plan* record.
2. Click **Create**.
3. Enter a **Name**.
4. Select a **Sample Type** from the dropdown.
5. Enter a **Sample Collection** count. This determines the number of samples that will be created. This value should be 0 for samples that will be created via Aliquot actions.
6. Optionally, populate the following fields:
    * **Amount per Sample**
    * **Unit of Measure**
    * **Sample Purpose**
    * **Sampling Instructions**
    * **Storage Condition**[^1]
    * **Storage Orientation**[^1]
7. Click **Save**.
8. Repeat for any additional *Lab Sample Definitions*.

[^1]: These fields should be populated if the *Sample Plan* will be used with a *Stability Study*.