Applying the TQM method of process characterization to Harris Semiconductor´s Spice model development and support

Improving product-to-market (PTM) cycle time for new products is recognized as a critical success factor in achieving Harris Corporation´s quality first goals. One key component in reducing PTM times is the application and improvement of CAD tools and their related models, which are the basis for circuit simulation and verification. As a means to improve PTM times, the total quality management (TQM) methodology of process characterization is applied to Spice model development and support activities. Process characterization is the orderly assessment of current operational procedures and relationships (state), definition of the desired state, and development of a plan that identifies steps for evolving to the desired state. The mechanics of how process characterization is applied to a critical industrial problem are explored, together with results achieved at the end of the three-month process characterization. A cross-functional team representing design systems, technology development, product lines, and manufacturing has been established to implement the recommendations