The Abstract reads:
To
respond to ever-increasing challenges, mining companies have been experimenting
with new business models and technologies in order to speed mine development,
production, processing and transport.
The various experiments involve mobile access to data, intelligent
sensors, advanced analytics, virtual collaboration, virtual reality, automated
equipment, remote operations centres and strategic partnerships. A synthesis of all these components creates
a ‘network effect’ that can dramatically improve the overall effectiveness the
entire operation.
The
concept of the Network Centric Mine borrows from a variety of industries,
including defence, aerospace, aviation, petroleum, utilities and manufacturing.
Central to the concept are improvements
to the way we connect people, process, information and technology, resulting in
a more highly collaborative business model, with roles and processes designed
to take advantage of new technology. The components of the mining operation act as
a connected network aimed at a common goal, regardless of the boundaries of
organisation and location.
The
design of this new organisational ecosystem needs to take into account the recent
advances that enable the ‘plug and play’ integrated collaborative environment, including
cloud computing, mobile devices and social networking, as well as advances in augmented
reality, robotics, geo-location, digital labelling, simulation and
analytics. However, the most consistent
lesson from other industries is the need to properly enable the behaviour and
process changes necessary for success.
Benefits
from adopting a network centric approach include the more effective use of
scarce expertise, improved data and information analysis, reduced process
variance, and more informed and faster decision-making.
The
future of mining will see more technology savvy workers who will drive adoption
of new processes. The operations will
shift from a relatively static and disparate set of functions, to a digitally
aware, dynamic, automated, integrated and interactive environment, with
increased agility, lower operating costs, higher productivity and improved
safety.
