Trace Forward and Trace Back

Tracing Forward and Tracing Back

For traceability, parts and products are identified individually or by lots and information is accumulated in each process. Tracing forward means using accumulated information to track the movement of products and tracing back means tracking records backward in the timeline.
However, it makes little sense to just identify parts and products or accumulate information. Traceability is achieved only when such information can be accessed and traced forward/backward at any time. This section explains the tracing forward and tracing back that must be mentioned when talking about traceability.

Tracing forward is an action to track a product by following the timeline. When a defect is detected in a particular part, for instance, products containing the part can be identified to recall them precisely. Consequently, it is effective for the measures against recalls and defective products.

Tracing back is an action to track records backward in the timeline. For example, when a problem occurs with shipped products, the relevant lot and process can be identified to investigate the cause promptly if you can trace back the records properly. Identification of a lot or a process allows quick actions to improve processes and quality, which leads to higher and more stable product quality.

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