Decision support smoothes semiconductor test division's outsourced model.(CASE-IN-POINT)

Manufacturing Business Technology, June, 2005 by Michel, Roberto

Being able to quickly analyze different supply-side scenarios is just as important for Agilent's California Semiconductor Test division now as it was a few years ago. The difference today is the Santa Clara, Calif.-based unit now outsources production to an electronics manufacturing services (EMS) provider.

So why would an OEM still want to simulate production scenarios when it's outsourcing manufacturing activity? For one, says Brent Hunter, the division's materials manager, Agilent retains engineering responsibility over its products, and must coordinate sourcing for new product launches. Agilent also must keep excess and obsolete inventory in check, and quickly respond with order promises. All these goals, maintains Hunter, require close partnering...