A holistic approach to mine digitalization for strategic success

In today’s changing landscape, mining companies face mounting pressure to improve efficiency, safety and sustainability. Digitalization offers a powerful way forward, but a holistic approach is essential to unlocking its full potential.

Digital transformation is more than adopting new technology. It reshapes how companies operate, including their structure, strategy, tools and culture. When mining companies integrate people, processes, technology, data, governance and user experience, they can achieve lasting and meaningful change. Digital solutions are crucial, especially in remote locations or where skilled labour is scare. These solutions can improve safety and support training, as well as reduce human error, downtime and repetitive tasks. People remain central to this transformation. To succeed, companies must invest in change management, process organization and training.

Upskilling workers in digital literacy, data analytics and automation technologies boosts engagement and adaptability. Tools like smart helmets, augmented reality devices and exoskeletons improve both safety and productivity. By encouraging a culture of innovation and continuous learning, teams are better prepared to embrace new ways of working and become more engaged and adaptable to evolving technologies.

Mining companies need to thrive in the digital age. Digital transformation supports business transformation. By changing how companies operate, it boosts efficiency and creates new value, helping build a more competitive and resilient business. Success depends on aligning digital projects with corporate goals such as performance, sustainability and workforce safety.

Strong governance and a deep understanding of the entire value chain are key. With access to real-time, reliable data, companies can make informed decisions and prioritize projects with the highest impact. This requires a flexible, well-sequenced plan.

A clear vision and measurable goals guide digital strategies. Using a people-focused design ensures new technologies meet the needs of workers and other stakeholders. Following innovation frameworks like the ISO 56002 standard helps organizations track progress, manage change effectively, deliver business value and promote continuous improvement.

A solid technological foundation is also critical. High-speed connectivity – through IoT enabled infrastructure, 5G and private LTE – enables seamless data sharing. Edge computing allows for faster decision-making by processing data near its source, while cloud integration improves access to data and supports collaboration across teams.

Mining operations generate vast amounts of data from sensors, equipment and surveys. Standardizing data formats helps new and legacy systems work together. By leveraging advanced analytics, AI and machine learning, mining companies can streamline workflows, predict equipment failures and extract meaningful insights from data. However, responsible AI is crucial. Algorithms must be transparent, fair and unbiased. Ethical AI practices safeguard privacy, protect workers' rights and maintain trust in automated systems.

Cybersecurity also plays a critical role. Mining companies must apply robust security measures to defend sensitive operational data from increasing cyber threats.

Automation can significantly improve both efficiency and safety. Deploying autonomous vehicles such as self-driving haul trucks and drilling rigs can significantly reduce worker exposure to hazardous conditions. Drones and robotics can help with site surveys and hazardous inspections without putting workers at risk. Digital twins are another important development. They are virtual models of physical assets that support predictive maintenance and enhance operational decision-making.

Digitalization can help companies align business strategies with sustainability goals and reduce environmental impacts. AI-powered systems manage energy consumption and reduce carbon emissions. IoT sensors improve how companies track and manage water, waste and other resources, ensuring they are used more efficiently. And finally, digital platforms help monitor environmental impacts, making it easier to comply with regulatory requirements and maintain sustainable practices.

Digital transformation cannot happen in a vacuum. Mining companies need to work with technology providers, research institutions and industry partners to accelerate innovation. Collaborating with universities, startups and peer organizations helps share best practices, co-develop new solutions, and explore the boundaries of technological advancements. Embracing open innovation through crowdsourcing, hackathons, and lessons from other industries, such as manufacturing and logistics, can also lead to creative problem-solving and provide valuable insights to improve mining processes.

To fully benefit from digital technologies, mining companies need strong, secure and agile systems. They must be reliable and perform well to align with strategic objectives, work within existing operations and adapt to changing needs. Throughout the digital transformation journey, organizations should measure progress using performance indicators, refine processes as needed and leverage successes to move forward.

As an example, BBA supported one of its mining clients in taking a holistic approach to meet its digitalization goals. The client faced several challenges related to commercial production for its operations. These included replacing depleted ore bodies, managing cash flow and ensuring operational continuity while ramping up production. Also, the client needed to address its sustainability goals, integrate new technologies, like battery electric vehicles (BEV) and other systems, and align organizational structures while maintaining a diverse and inclusive workplace.

BBA developed a vision-setting framework and operations philosophy to guide the operational transition. This included defining drivers, goals and objectives across key areas such as production, sustainability, culture and technology. BBA facilitated workshops to address challenges and opportunities and created a roadmap for the path forward. The approach emphasized leveraging existing systems, designing for future business and stakeholder needs, and aligning with our client's business, ESG, and technology priorities. This helped our client to develop initiatives to achieve outcomes such as maintaining operational continuity, reducing costs, achieving production targets and meeting sustainability goals. It also highlighted improved safety, productivity and organizational alignment through technology and innovation.

Digital transformation in mining should strike a balance among people, the environment and profitability. This triple-bottom-line approach creates long-term value by addressing social and environmental impacts along with financial results.

A holistic approach to mining digitalization is about more than technology. It involves aligning digital projects with business objectives, preparing the workforce, embracing sustainability, and building strong partnerships. By following this strategic framework, mining companies can unlock the full potential of digital transformation, creating a safer, more efficient and sustainable future for the industry.

Sabbagh, S. and Yep, M. (2025). A holistic approach to mine digitalization for strategic success. Canadian Mining Journal. https://www.canadianminingjournal.com/digital-edition/may-2025/