A Simple CA (Corrective Action) Database

[Greg B]

In Reply to Parent Post by Bigfoot

Thanks for the feedback. Any tips that I should watch out for as I attempt to set up an access database?

Bigfoot,

I agree with James. Take your time to map out what you want (I literally wrote it all our on A3 sheets (Tables, Queries, Forms, Reports, Macros etc). For instance: The Major table (I have 40 Tables) has 60 fields (many of these are taken directly from the CA form). In this way, we can record ALL of the data entered on the form. I have many Sub-Tables designed to be used as drop down menus (makes things easier when entering data) like Managers titles, Departments, Type of Event (Contamination, Damaged packaging etc).

When I make a Table I always make a master query based on the table. In this way you can make forms (for data entry) easier. As James stated, this could take you many months to complete. I am still playing around with my DB after three years. It is a WIP.

I did a few VERY basic courses but as with all MS Software I learned more by using the program and playing around with it.
Greg B

[JRKH]

Wow Greg I didn't wind up with more than maybe a half dozen tables.

But your right. Taking the time up front to map what you want is critical.
I also Like the Idea of creating a master Query for each table.

MS Access should have some sample DB's in it. Also some prebuilt ones (like inventory control) I would reocmmend taking a look at these to help learn how the systems work. Set up one of the prebuilt Databases and look at how it functions.

James

[mshell]

I also use MS Access to track CA/PA, Complaints, Nonconforming Product, Training Records, Training Requirements and Calibration (to name a few). It takes a little programming but you can set it up to notify when certain items are due. i.e document review, calibration, corrective or preventive action review. In the end it is worth the time as it makes accessing the information, identifying trends and reporting for management review much easier. You can also automate some of the process by programming the software to perform certain actions based on user input.

[Randy Stewart]

I use Access also, have for a few years now. The one caution you should know is - go easy on the macros. We have a couple databases in use now that were written in the '95 version and can not be upgraded to the newer versions of Access due to some of the macros used. Our CA database has been upgraded with no issues.
Access is a powerful tool and with a little time investment you stand to save the company some $$$ by not going the commercial software route.

[Joe Cruse]

Bigfoot,

look at this thread. I attached an MS Access db here, and I think one or 2 others did also. If you can't download, email me.

Joe

http://elsmar.com/Forums/showthread....7&page=4&pp=15

[Bigfoot]

Thank you all for the great inputs and advice. I have some experience with MS access but it wasn't real good. Mostly due to the predecessors extensive use of macros & modules that made working with it (de-bugging issues) very difficult. If you aren't the guy who sets it up then trouble shooting it becomes a big headache

Joe: I sent you an e-mail. I couldn't download the .zip file from the thread.

Anyhow this site has been a real blessing to me in generating ideas to incorporate & revise documents for our TS 16949 system. Thanks again!!!

[Claes Gefvenberg]

In Reply to Parent Post by Bigfoot

Anyhow this site has been a real blessing to me in generating ideas to incorporate & revise documents for our TS 16949 system. Thanks again!!!

You're right there, Bigfoot. I've said it before and will say it again: The information here is second to none, and no matter how much I contribute myself, I alway feel that I get more in return.

Well done Cove Dwellers.

As for Joe's database, I had a good long look at it earlier and it looks like a great tool. You could do a lot worse than trying it out. It's really neat. I have put a number of Access databases together myself, but unfortunately (for you ) they are all in Swedish, and translating them would be worse than creating new ones.

/Claes

[Bigfoot]

claes,