Corrective Action, Preventive Action and Continuous Improvement - Differences?

What is the difference between corrective & preventive action and continuous improvement projects?
When do I define a corrective action and when do I make a continuous improvement project?
Thanks.


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[Sam]

I- Corrective action: Action take to correct and prevent recurrence of an existing defect/problem. Used to correct defects/problems in parts,processes and systems.

2- Preventive action: Action taken to prevent a potential defect/Problem.
Review FMEA's to determine the need, utilize mistake proofing.

3- Continuous Improvement: Action taken to improve products/processes that are in a state of control.
Improve Cpk for processes, improve information flow for systems. Adopt JIT, lean manufacturing, review new technology.

[Marc]

There are a number of threads here you might want to visit including:
http://Elsmar.com/ubb/Forum32/HTML/000002.html and
http://Elsmar.com/ubb/Forum2/HTML/000036.html and
http://Elsmar.com/ubb/Forum32/HTML/000004.html

The first thread is pretty lengthy. Recently I read a good one:

Corrective Action - The nonconformance finds you.

Preventive Action - You find the nonconformance.


[This message has been edited by Marc Smith (edited 18 August 2000).]