Microelectronic assembly suppliers need to work closely with their customers to help resolve product weaknesses or field failures in an assembly. They have to develop microelectronic assembly processes that will reduce or eliminate field issues and quality excursions. Developing a solid control plan for an assembly process is a great way to get started. During the design and development phase of the product, failure mode analysis tools like DFMEA and PFMEA can uncover most of the areas in which control needs to be established. Once the assembly process is in production mode and the control plan is being followed, data can be collected and fed back into the process for continued improvement. In the six sigma environment, this would be described by the acronym DMAIC, to Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control. Using these techniques the product or assembly begins under control, remains under control, and improves quality over time with reduced cost and greater profitability.