Search Results qa_plan_chars




The QA_PLAN_CHARS table in Oracle E-Business Suite (EBS) 12.1.1 or 12.2.2 is a critical data structure within the Quality Management (QM) module. It stores detailed information about the characteristics associated with quality plans, which are used to define inspection and testing criteria for items, suppliers, or processes. This table acts as a junction between quality plans (QA_PLANS) and the specific characteristics (QA_CHARS) that must be evaluated during quality inspections.

Key Attributes of QA_PLAN_CHARS

  • PLAN_ID: Foreign key linking to QA_PLANS, identifying the quality plan.
  • CHAR_ID: Foreign key referencing QA_CHARS, defining the characteristic being measured (e.g., weight, dimensions).
  • ENABLED_FLAG: Indicates whether the characteristic is active for the plan.
  • DISPLAY_SEQUENCE: Determines the order in which characteristics appear during inspections.
  • TARGET_VALUE, UPPER_SPEC_LIMIT, LOWER_SPEC_LIMIT: Define acceptable ranges or target values for the characteristic.
  • LAST_UPDATE_DATE, LAST_UPDATED_BY: Audit columns tracking modifications.

Functional Role in Quality Processes

The QA_PLAN_CHARS table enables the configuration of inspection criteria by associating measurable characteristics with specific quality plans. For example:
  • Incoming Inspection: Defines tolerances for supplier materials.
  • In-Process Inspection: Sets parameters for manufacturing checks.
  • Final Inspection: Establishes acceptance criteria before product shipment.

Integration with Other Modules

QA_PLAN_CHARS integrates with:
  • Inventory: Inspections triggered during receipt or movement.
  • Purchasing: Supplier quality agreements.
  • Manufacturing: Work order quality checks.

Technical Considerations

  • Indexes on PLAN_ID and CHAR_ID optimize join performance.
  • Data is maintained via Oracle Forms or APIs like QA_PLANS_PUB.
  • Custom reports often join this table with QA_RESULTS for analysis.

Upgrade Implications

Between 12.1.1 and 12.2.2, the table structure remains consistent, but underlying architecture changes (e.g., Online Patching in 12.2) may affect access patterns. This table is foundational for enforcing quality standards across the supply chain, ensuring compliance, and reducing defects through systematic inspection criteria definition.