Abstract :
This paper sets out to create a picture for the current position by reflecting on the findings of PASSE, an ESPRIT project. It also elaborates on the deficiencies and how they may be addressed for future improvement and comments on the strengths largely arising through European R&D projects funded both at the company and national government, or at the European level. The paper, in particular, also enables the reader to gain an overall impression of the situation prevailing in the microelectronics industry, and in addition a future direction is outlined from which distinct benefits may be reaped. Finally, comparisons are made between the microelectronics and discrete manufacturing industries that must be reflected in the appropriate PSMC
