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36 SMT007 MAGAZINE I OCTOBER 2021 computer applications defined by the Comput- er and utomated Systems Association (CASA) group of the Society of Manufacturing Engi- neers (SME) in the 1980s. Planning Process e planning process can be as simple as the four steps seen in Figure 4; simple like the HP process (Figure 2), or as elaborate as the six phases seen in Table 1. Whatever methodol- ogy is used, thorough planning will make the project proceed more smoothly and ensure success. Systemization vs. Mechanization e two automation elements are deter- mined by the total machine time for a pro- cess step (system information and mechanical work) vs. the time human labor is added to this process step. ese two axes are: 1. Systemization (information) Levels (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) 2. Mechanization (work) Classes (A, B, C, D, E, F) Networking Communication vs. Material Handling These elements are introduced in my book on automation: "The automation methodology consists of automation plans for each work center plus plans for material flow and information flow between work centers," the automation methodology to cover material handling and network communications between cells and work centers. This important third axis is: • • Material handling degree (a, b, c, d, e, f ) Network communication extent (I, II, III, IV, V, VI) ese axes are seen in Figure 4. Worksheets: Times and Throughput Now that you have determined your compet- itive position and core competence in the PCB manufacturing market and have established a competitive position that you want to enhance, it's time to plan. If automation/new technol- ogy is one of those strategies, it is time to do Figure 4: Defining the axis of the automation matrix.