How TOC & TPM work together to build the quality toolbox of SDWTs

This paper details activities targeted at improving task behaviors within self-directed work teams (SDWTs), which subsequently improve productivity and quality within the factory. Like many companies, Harris Semiconductor manages its resources to improve productivity and lower manufacturing costs. One major initiative employed at Harris, Theory of Constraints (TOC), focuses on increased throughput, decreased inventory, and reduced operating expense. TOC is the central focus for individual, team, and equipment improvements. Employees are involved in continuous improvement activities, Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) and system improvement project teams to achieve TOC objectives. We focus on the methods used at Harris Semiconductor to deploy and train employees in TOC and TPM, a subset of the total employee "tool box" needed to be successful in today's very competitive environment.