Outsourcing your next-generation sequencing (NGS) project can be a game-changer, but knowing where to start isn’t always easy. The good news? Partnering with an NGS service provider allows you to access cutting-edge technology and expert analysis without the upfront investment in costly instruments, labor, and infrastructure. Whether you’re new to NGS or looking to scale your research efficiently, outsourcing can save time and resources while ensuring high-quality results.
With so many options available, how do you choose the right provider? If you’ve never outsourced your sequencing before, you might be wondering: How much will it cost? What exactly am I paying for? How can I trust that my data is accurate? These are crucial questions, and finding clear answers isn’t always straightforward. That’s why we’ve put together a guide on the key factors to consider when selecting an NGS service provider, along with common red flags to avoid.
What to Look For in an NGS Service Provider
Choosing the right provider ensures you get reliable data that meets your research needs. Here are five key factors to look for:
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Rigorous Quality Control at Every Step
NGS quality control is crucial for ensuring accurate and reproducible results. A reputable NGS service provider should implement robust QC measures at every stage, from sample processing to data analysis.
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A Knowledgeable and Responsive Team
The best NGS providers offer strong technical support, helping you troubleshoot issues and ensuring your project runs smoothly. A responsive team that can answer complex questions and provide expert guidance is essential.
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Ability to Work with Low-Quality or Degraded Samples
Biological samples can vary widely in nucleic acid yield and integrity. Some, like FFPE tissue and wastewater, are inherently degraded, have low input amounts, or present challenges in extraction and library preparation. A skilled provider should have the expertise and advanced NGS sample preparation technology needed to obtain high-quality data from challenging samples.
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Guarantees Data Volume and Quality
A reliable provider will clearly outline expectations for data quantity and quality upfront. They should also have a strong bioinformatics pipeline to ensure high-quality, publication-ready data and reports are delivered.
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Use of Standards and Controls in Every Run
Sequencing standards and controls are essential for assessing data accuracy, detecting potential errors, and ensuring consistency across runs. A provider that integrates NGS quality control measures into their workflow enhances data reliability and ensures confidence in your results.
What to Avoid: Red Flags in NGS Service Providers
Just as it is important to know what to look for, you should also be aware of warning signs—especially when dealing with precious samples. If you are researching a new provider or evaluating your current one, watch out for these red flags:
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Only Accepts High-Yield Samples
High-yield samples are easier to work with, but many research projects require analyzing precious samples with low nucleic acid content. If a provider only accepts high-concentration samples, they may lack the expertise or technology to handle low-input or degraded samples, such as FFPE tissue or liquid biopsies.
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Poor Documentation of Workflow Changes
Lack of transparency in workflow adjustments can lead to inconsistencies and irreproducible results. A trustworthy provider prioritizes transparency and keeps detailed records of any changes to ensure data integrity.
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Few Customer Reviews or Publications
A lack of peer-reviewed citations or customer feedback may indicate limited experience. Established providers with a strong track record are more likely to deliver reliable results.
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Overpromises and Under-Delivers
If a provider makes big claims but fails to meet expectations, it could be a sign of inexperience or poor quality control. A reliable provider is upfront about what they can and cannot deliver.
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Outdated or Incomplete Bioinformatics
The accuracy of NGS data analysis services depends on the strength of the bioinformatics pipeline used. A provider without up-to-date tools and expertise may deliver incomplete or misinterpreted data. Always choose a provider with strong in-house bioinformatics capabilities to ensure reliable results.
Your Trusted Partner for Cutting-Edge NGS Services
Choosing the right NGS service provider is a key step in ensuring the success of your project—and we are here to make that decision easier. At Zymo Research, we understand the challenges of outsourcing sequencing projects and are committed to providing reliable, high-quality solutions.
Trusted by researchers worldwide, Zymo Research provides comprehensive services for genomics, transcriptomics, microbiomics, and epigenomics sequencing. Our team has experience working with any sample type and is dedicated to delivering fast, accurate results. Our expert scientists are capable of the fastest turnaround times in the industry, delivering accurate results and comprehensive reports in as little as 5 days. We work closely with you to customize our services to fit your project’s needs, delivering high-quality, publication-ready data every time.
If you have questions or would like to discuss your project, fill out the form below, and one of our NGS experts will be in touch.
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