Method and apparatus for performing timing correction transformations on a technology-independent logic model during logic synthesis

A computer program is disclosed providing a sequence of automated logic synthesis routines having three phases. Phase I identifies an estimated critical path by assuming optimum allocation within a "best-fit" preliminary assignment of the technology to a technology-independent model, and optimizes the estimated model for speed. Phase II provides a technology-legal model, and ends by calculating the actual timing provided by the technology-legal model. Phase III uses self-limiting routines, and routines that are unlikely to produce technology violations, to fine tume the production and performance characteristics of the legal model.