Digital First – Digital First

Mining Efficiency Unleashed: A Case Study in Digital Transformation

Posted on January 26, 2024June 21, 2024 by Digital First

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Working with a client in the mining sector our team sought to enhance operational efficiency by incorporating the use of tablets, robust planning software, and Short Interval Control (SIC). The goal was to maximize the productivity of each shift by optimizing effective working hours and minutes, aligning activities with mine planning, and fostering a more transparent and robust system.

GOAL

The primary objective was to increase tonnage by extending active shift length. Initial deliverables included finding equipment faster at the start of the shift, obtaining real-time status updates of each heading, and acquiring accurate production and equipment availability data.

Our approach, focusing on People, Process, and Technology, was pivotal in ensuring the successful implementation and widespread adoption of these digital tools. This unique strategy for digital adoption addressed user needs, boosted user engagement, and contributed to sustained production and value increase over time. In the mining industry, where every minute is crucial, these advancements have led to significant improvements in operational efficiency and cost reduction.

OUTCOMES

Completed 100% adoption of tablets with apps by operators.
Simplified training process through process and stakeholder mapping.
Communication improvements with Webex Teams, providing a 30-minute increase in active shift length.
SIC app added an extra 20 minutes, reducing lineout time and radio chatter/update time.
Blue Beam (map app) reduced re-work and shifter prep time by 15 minutes.

A Case Study in Achieving Excellence Virtually

Posted on January 26, 2024August 6, 2024 by Digital First

BACKGROUND

The inaugural virtual conference within the global mining industry aimed to establish an online community of practice dedicated to addressing key challenges contributing to enhanced metallurgical performance and increased recovery, quantifying improvements with tangible and specific financial value.

INDUSTRY FOCUS

Aligned with the overarching goal of responsibly sourcing commodities that advance everyday life, the importance of safety, environmental considerations, and community impacts were stressed. While upholding these principles, the industry recognized the need for structured processes to optimize operations and financial outcomes. This involved a methodical approach to identifying improvement opportunities, evaluating them, determining root causes, assessing the complexity of implementation, ranking opportunities, and project managing improvements in the business.

VIRTUAL CONFERENCE STRUCTURE

The virtual conference and workshop series have garnered excellent participation from a diverse group of professionals within the industry. Working collaboratively with our Digital First Facilitators they were able to identify opportunities and address operational gaps across global operations. Leveraging internal talent, qualified facilitators, and the latest collaboration technologies, the conference is well-structured to facilitate global connections and derive actionable insights.

KEY FEATURES

Diverse Participation: The conference engaged 90+ attendees from 10 countries, ensuring a comprehensive spread of expertise and capabilities across the concentrators industry.
Global Reach: With live translations in 3 languages, the virtual gathering connected professionals from 23 sites worldwide, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Industry Breakdown: Representing 4 commodities, with 49% Copper, 35% Zinc, 11% Nickel, and 5% Alloys, the conference addressed a diverse range of industry challenges.
Interactive Workshops: The event comprised 19 workshops facilitated by 11 experts, covering 6 key themes and resulting in the creation of 200 new connections in a single day.

OUTCOMES

Community Building: Successfully built a community of professionals within the industry, fostering ongoing collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Digital Adoption: Embraced new collaboration and brainstorming platforms, highlighting the industry’s commitment to leveraging digital technologies for enhanced efficiency.
Education Initiatives: Provided education on Value Levers and Value Drivers, empowering professionals with insights into optimizing operations and driving value.
Technology Review: Conducted a comprehensive review of technology use cases, ensuring alignment with industry needs and advancements.

A Manufacturing Case Study in Process Optimization

Posted on January 26, 2024June 15, 2024 by Digital First

BACKGROUND

In the manufacturing industry, a leading company faced challenges in maintaining competitiveness and delivering value. The existing communication processes and cycle times required improvement to stay ahead. Notable concerns included inefficient tooling, inserts, holding capability, and CNC programs for newly acquired products.

SOLUTION

Working with our team of Digital First Facilitators, with a focus on fostering improved communication, addressing tooling inefficiencies, and streamlining machining processes – including the implementation of Huddle Boards and an improved communication culture that would prove to be transformative.

OUTCOMES

Morale Improvement: The introduction of Huddle Boards and a new communication culture positively impacted employee morale.
Defect Reduction: The streamlined processes resulted in a significant reduction in defects, enhancing product quality.
Enhanced Equipment Utilization: The optimized tooling and inserts, along with improved holding capability, led to better equipment utilization.