Process simplification as a continuous improvement methodology

Integrated circuit process technologies are introduced into manufacturing at a stage where inefficiencies are still present. Continuous effort focused at removing non-value added steps in the process now can reap large rewards. A multi-year process simplification effort spanning generations of process technologies has paid large dividends in the cost and cycle time of manufacturing. Cypress manages the program to achieve an entitlement of 25% step reduction during manufacturing. The methods by which the simplification effort takes place are instrumental in guiding and sustaining the program such that simplification progress is quicker with each generation of technology.