A continuous operations workschedule implementation

IBM´S semiconductor facility near Burlington, Vermont, adopted continuous operation (ContOps) in 1990 by implementing a variation of the 12-h work schedule for their production employees. The author discusses that work schedule and how it was implemented. The foundation studies that proved the business need, the analysis of work schedule alternatives, the key business measurements, and the personnel relations activities required for each phase of the changeover are discussed. Some of the lessons learned, including what to expect (and not expect) from implementing a ContOps work schedule, are reviewed. Concepts and principles are presented in broad terms to facilitate the conversion to ContOps for any enterprise