A status visualization method of a diagnostic laboratory system. The status visualization method includes receiving, at a system controller, computer-readable data comprising analyzers included within the diagnostic laboratory system, and test demand for types of tests and number of the tests to be performed on samples by the analyzers, wherein the analyzers each include consumable items and maintenance items. The method further includes determining, via a walk-away time estimation module executing on the system controller, an estimated walk-away time for the analyzers based upon the test demand and status of the consumable items and maintenance items. Diagnostic laboratory systems with walk-away time estimation are disclosed, as are other aspects.