Graphical problem-solving techniques for process improvement-a change of direction at RCA-ESD

Quality, productivity, statistical process control and process improvement have been important topics for discussion in American industry for the last decade. It is considered wise, if not necessary, to tout quality and process improvement in advertising and marketing strategies. RCA Electronic Systems Department is a manufacturer of high quality products, but being able to provide high quality products is not enough. Tight scheduling, second sourcing, and fixed price contracts are demanding effective and highly efficient production systems. Manufacturing costs, which are strongly impacted by defects, rework, and scrap, weigh heavily on a defense contractor´s competitive position. A comprehensive improvement process, which includes the use of graphic problem solving tools, statistics, and teamwork, will improve quality and productivity, and will decrease costs. This paper covers the process improvement work being done in the ISEM manufacturing area of RCA-ESD