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Original Date: 05/01/2000
Revision Date: 01/18/2007
Best Practice : Product Assurance Replacement and Trending System
Prior to 1995, each organization at Northrop Grumman Defensive Systems Division (DSD) maintained its own stand-alone database for nonconforming material reports (NMRs); stocksweep generation and tracking; depot field return data; Test Result Notices (TRNs); and Material Exceptions. The corrective action systems, including the trending of failure data and corrective actions, were also managed in separate manual data systems. Cross-platform communication was limited because the databases operated in different software applications. In addition, approximately 32% duplication occurred across all the systems. Northrop Grumman DSD implemented the Product Assurance Replacement and Trending System (P.A.R.T.S) to enhance its operations by consolidating the stand-alone systems into a single integrated database (Figure 2-8).
The five database entities were integrated into a single client/server database which operates on a common SQL and application software. Other systems added to this consolidated database include corrective action requests and ISO, process, and software assessments. The P.A.R.T.S database standardizes data for NMRs and corrective actions; provides consistent, reliable historical data; and is easily modified for changing system and site requirements. In addition, trending capabilities have improved and users can generate various reports including ones that show visible process bottlenecks. Outputs from this system include cycle time reports, corrective action board reports, NMRs, and return material authorizations. All organizations at Northrop Grumman DSD have on-line access to the P.A.R.T.S database.
The P.A.R.T.S enabled Northrop Grumman DSD to reduce its system support costs by combining databases, minimizing manual entry, using a single software solution, improving process flows, and decreasing reproduction costs through electronic distribution of data and reports. The company realized a 32% reduction in redundant data, a 30% reduction in manual entry, and a 36% reduction in maintenance tables.
Figure 2-8. Product Assurance Replacement and Trending System
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