Cycle time reduction for semiconductor wafer fabrication facilities

The issue of cycle time reduction and its impact on a company´s competitive edge has been gaining considerable attention recently. Generally speaking, shorter cycle times result in better customer satisfaction, lower work-in-process (WIP), higher yield, and better capacity given tool inventory and facility constraints. This paper provides a brief review of key concepts related to cycle time and describes a methodology for cycle time reduction projects in semiconductor wafer fabrication facilities, including the critically important implementation road map step. Finally, a case study is presented to illustrate the effectiveness and potential gains of the proposed cycle time reduction methodology