AN INTEGRATED APPROACH TO PROCESS MANAGEMENT

The paper demonstrates how process management can be facilitated by focusing on potential field failures and using a modified version of standard FMEA techniques. In the system, demonstrated relationship matrices are established between Failure Modes through Mechanisms to Product Characteristics and, finally, to Process Controls. It is shown how the matrices can be used in an SPC program by assisting selection of critical modes. Also addressed is the support of communication from customer's experience back through manufacturing to the product and process design activity. Although the examples used are from the Semiconductor Industry, the techniques are applicable to any manufacturing activity.