Developing a data-collection system for PCB assembly: a case study in software engineering

For manufacturing firms to increase productivity and quality while reducing their inventory and operational costs, a simple and easy-to-use data collection system is needed on the shop floor. Such a system developed for an electronic card manufacturing line is discussed. Facility operations are described, and the requirements for an ideal software solution are outlined. An independent development effort was undertaken to satisfy the unique requirements of the production line. As work progressed, a number of factors conspired to produce schedule and cost overruns that caused management to scale back the scope considerably. What eventually emerged was a much leaner and less capable system than originally envisioned. The factors that put the project in jeopardy are discussed, and some suggestions and lessons gained from the experience, which are applicable to any software development project, are offered