Purpose

• To define each element of data in the BOM and in Design Documents, their source and the function responsible for entry into the database.
• To use this technique for all programs relating to Design Data. To avoid multiple definitions for the same data element. One government site reported 27 different definitions for a part number.

Applicability

• All data to be entered into the Engineering/Manufacturing databases.

Policy/Practice

• Determine whether an element of data relates to a document or an item.
• Define basic information as in the following example:
  Data Element: Item weight
  Source: Released part document – furnished by the cognizant engineer
  Entered by: CM technician
  Character Definition: 5 digits – NNN.N (N = Numeric)
  English definition: The weight of the part in pounds and tenths of pounds.
  Notes: Not to be entered for assemblies. Not to be entered for documents unless they are shipped with the product. Allows “roll-up” of assembly or product weight even before the product is built.
• This element is shown, for example, not to encourage its use, as the product can more easily be weighed after build.

Procedure

• None required.

Primary Responsibility

• The CM Manager will be responsible for keeping this standard current and must obtain the IT Department co-operation.

Authorization