Detecting and eliminating non-coating problems in negative photo resist (NPR) industry: A kaizen approach

Abstract

Defect free management is the goal of any organization. One of the best methods to create a defect free manufacturing is the Kaizen approach. The term Kaizen comes from the word Gemba Kaizen meaning 'Continuous Improvement' (CI). Continuous Improvement is one of the core strategies for excellence in production and is considered vital in today's competitive environment. It calls for endless effort for improvement involving everyone in the organization. Thus, the aim of this paper is to explore the Kaizen approach implementation in solving the problem with Negative Photo Resist (NPR) where non-coated panels were being scraped in huge quantity. The study seeks to explore new practices to identify hidden improvement opportunities in the regular production of the product to increase productivity and improve quality using value stream map. The research paper gives useful understandings to the lean implementers, Kaizen identifiers, consultants, and researchers.