M itc he ll H .H oo ke .
Im ag e:
Mitchell H. Hooke believes that innovation follows an evolutionary trend rather than a revolutionary one.
augmented generation (RAG), knowledge graphs, thematics and semantic forensics come into play, facilitating more accurate and relevant data interpretation for more accurate information and applicable effectiveness and efficiencies.
Embracing digitalisation
Ambition and applicability must align when translating technology into mining practice. Image: Parilov/shutterstock.com
experiences ,prioritising engagement over one-way communication, encouraging the seeking of information rather than just distributing it, and focusing on strategic marketing instead of just transactional selling are key to building long-term effective relationships and trust. There are genuine opportunities for the mining industry to transform, grow and prosper sustainably. The key lies in finding the sweet spot between ambition and applicability. It’s not just about identifying new technologies or systems but understanding which are truly attuned to market needs and adaptable to evolving conditions. Digitalisation, in all its manifestations, stands out as a cross-cutting enabler that can transform every aspect of mining operations. The merger of Accenture (ACN) and Partners in Performance (PiP) exemplifies this integration of “foundational” business improvement methodologies with the “frontiers” of advanced technological enablement tools. PiP’s strength in
management operating systems, combined with Accenture’s digital competencies, has delivered essential skills and resources to strengthen data and knowledge management across production processes.
Domain knowledge
One of my most significant insights, from my role on a Federal Government board charged with accelerating the commercialisation of new technologies, was the exploration of human augmentation software in factoring into digital platforms, especially artificial intelligence (AI), the critical practicalities and likely intangibles of "domain knowledge". While data engineers can generate statistical analyses from algorithmic constructs, these tools alone cannot capture non-quantifiable inputs such as perceptions, cultural variables, and behaviours, nor readily interpret or explain the statistical output. This is where technologies like retrievable
If I had a magic wand, I would wave it to enhance the industry's capacities across key determinants of productivity and safety. I'd go for more sophisticated, reliable, and accurate mineralisation descriptors at less cost. Imagine being able to produce a better 3D block model and interpret the geo-metallurgy characteristics of processing ore with less drilling and faster, more accurate assays. Better ore body knowledge lays the foundation for more effective mine planning and operational scheduling. Technologies like digital twins and predictive analytics can optimise the entire extraction and processing sequence, from blast patterns to mill processes. Consider the value of fleet management systems that can differentiate extracted material as ore or waste before it even reaches the fork in the road to either the mill or waste dump. The potential for revenue optimisation through product differentiation is also immense. By understanding the specific needs of customers, miners can produce customer-tailored quality end-use products that command better prices and foster stronger interdependent relationships. While the front-end digital technologies are transformative, there's also low-hanging fruit in back-office automation. Automated procurement, predictive maintenance scheduling, and asset project construction and operation can streamline processes and reduce costs. www.miningmagazine.com.au
21