Ten core terms in CAQ
Are you about to install a CAQ system? This is a complex task where it is important to focus on the critical points. The ten core terms in CAQ summarize the most important aspects of your task.
CAQ
CAQ stands for Computer Aided Quality Assurance. This means the deployment of a computer system in Quality Assurance in order to plan and take quality assurance measures in a company.
Modular
A module is a component of an overall system which contains all the functions necessary for solving a defined task or supporting a quality management process (e.g. complaints management). A CAQ system should have a modular design so that it can be implemented in a company and then expanded step-by-step according to requirements. This method ensures that the system is introduced efficiently.
Integrative
A CAQ system must be capable of integration in existing IT and corporate structures. This means that it needs to feature interfaces to all conventional ERP systems, measurement and test systems, as well as to Microsoft Office and multimedia products, based on the regular databases.
Process-oriented
The aim of a CAQ system is to ensure support for company-specific processes. To make certain that the system functions effectively, it is therefore essential that operation of the software is aligned with work processes and sequences defined by the workflow of the user. Cross-module user navigation guarantees process-oriented work methods.
Active
In addition to defined plan and target data, a CAQ system is fed daily with performance data. When threshold values are reached or discrepancies are detected, an active CAQ system automatically generates information which can be sent by e-mail or SMS to the relevant workers. It can also independently perform recurring tasks, for example automatically create regular reports (e.g. monthly or quarterly reports).
Standard-compliant
Standards form the basis of every supplier-customer relationship. The requirements to be fulfilled by a functioning quality management system are laid down in standards. If a CAQ system is to be profitably deployed as a supportive tool for using and guaranteeing the quality management system, it is absolutely mandatory to take the stipulations of these standards into account. It is particularly important that the CAQ system conforms to all specifications laid down in the standards DIN EN ISO 9001:2000, ISO/TS 16949, QS 9000 and VDA 6.
Practical
Before the CAQ system is able to provide optimum support for company-specific procedures, the selected modules must be customized, or configured, for that particular project, according to the customer's requirements. At the same time, the guidelines laid down in the applicable standards must be properly implemented in the software.
Advance planning of quality processes
Quality needs to be planned. Planning begins at the product development stage, whereby prevention is the key to avoiding faults and errors. A CAQ system provides different modules for supporting planning processes (e.g. APQP, FMEA, Control Plan, approval procedures for the product and production processes).
Quality Assurance
A CAQ system supports all processes to ensure product quality during the entire value-adding chain. The quality of deliveries, through to the standard of quality during the production stage, and culminating at the outgoing goods inspection, are monitored using defined quality tests. These ensure the capabilities of the production processes and the operative measurement and test systems. All quality-related data is saved and quality certificates are issued.
Project Quality Management
Evaluations and statistics which reflect the quality standard are indispensable. A CAQ system must prepare information that can be used by company management as a basis for decisions in the event of performance deviations. Management information is generated from the CAQ data, which can then be made available to users on the Internet or corporate intranet.
Quality improvements (CIP)
A CAQ system helps you to learn from your mistakes. All quality-related processes undergo permanent improvement. Enterprise-wide documentation and the tracking of corrective measures represent a central element of the continuous improvement process.