When IVF laboratories review their witnessing processes, they may look closely at whether their current system still meets their operational needs – particularly around flexibility, traceability and ease of use. For centres using RFID based witnessing, this sometimes leads to exploring barcode-based alternatives that offer a different approach.
One clinic that recently made this evaluation was Create Bristol, who transitioned from their RFID witnessing system to IMT Matcher in 2024. Their journey provides clear, practical insight for clinics considering a similar move. In parallel, Matcher has supported IVF centres transitioning from RFID, enabling a structured and fully supported changeover.
Why Create Bristol considered a change
Before switching, Create Bristol used an RFID system. While it worked reliably overall, the team experienced some challenges. Their wider organisation had already implemented Matcher successfully in other clinics, which gave Blair Sowry, Lab Manager of Create Bristol confidence to explore it as a potential alternative.
What the transition looked like
Matcher follows a structured transition process for centres moving from RFID, including:
- Initial workflow review
- System configuration tailored to the lab
- Hardware installation (with no equipment modifications required)
- Optional EMR integration via open API
- Comprehensive staff training (eLearning and live sessions)
Create Bristol found this process well supported and manageable. They described Matcher’s training as clear, practical, and well-structured, and noted the team’s responsiveness during early adoption.
Benefits Create Bristol experienced after switching
Once implemented, Blair Sowry outlined that Create Bristol saw several improvements in their daily workflow:
- Significantly reduced consumable costs, as barcodes are considerably more affordable than RFID tags.
- Found barcodes to be more consistent and reliable in daily use.
- Greater Flexibility with Pocket Matchers so staff can witness anywhere in the clinic.
- The minimal infrastructure required also contributes to a cleaner and more efficient working environment.
- Improved workflow efficiency by reducing reliance on manual double witnessing.
Beyond Create Bristol’s experience, fertility centres considering transitioning to a Barcode Based system may have questions about workflow continuity and staff adoption. Matcher has well-established processes in place to support each of these areas, ensuring that teams feel confident, protected, and fully supported throughout the change.
To help you explore these topics in more depth, we’ve compiled a dedicated RFID to Matcher FAQ, which outlines what centres can expect during the transition.
