德勤-2018年趋势追踪：未来一年塑造矿业形态的十大要项（英文版）-2018.2-74页-1mb

2018 Mining Trends Summary

Core Content

The 2018 edition of Tracking the Trends outlines the top 10 issues shaping the future of the mining industry. This report highlights the need for transformation and innovation as the sector navigates a period of rapid change and uncertainty. It emphasizes the shift from traditional operations to data-driven and digital strategies, as well as the importance of stakeholder relationships, sustainability, and new technologies in driving long-term value.

Main Themes

1. Digital Transformation

• Mining companies are increasingly recognizing the value of data and digital technologies in optimizing operations, reducing costs, and improving safety.
• The digital mine vision involves automation, IoT, and the creation of a digital "nerve center" to integrate data across the value chain.
• Examples include:
  • A major Australian miner moving operations to a remote center with real-time supply chain visualization.
  • Using AI and RPA to support decision-making and reduce reliance on legacy systems.

2. Innovation Maturity

• The mining industry is still in the early stages of innovation maturity.
• Barriers to innovation include:
  • Risk aversion due to the need to maintain cash flow and licenses.
  • Short-term focus over long-term value.
  • Lack of a clear innovation vision.
  • Isolation and resistance to collaboration.
• Deloitte's research shows mining consistently underspends on innovation compared to other sectors.

3. Collaborative Ecosystems

• Collaboration is seen as a key enabler of innovation, particularly through partnerships with technology firms, juniors, and service providers.
• Structured innovation ecosystems can reduce risk and costs, and allow for more efficient development of new technologies and processes.
• Examples include open forums and hackathons that bring together diverse stakeholders.

4. Future of Work

• The nature of work is changing due to automation and digital technologies.
• These changes are expected to reduce labor intensity and increase safety, while also enabling more diverse and inclusive workforces.
• Automation is predicted to impact a significant portion of jobs in the UK by 2035, indicating a global trend.

5. Sustainability and New Commodities

• Environmental concerns are driving the need for sustainable practices.
• New commodities like polymetallic nodules from the ocean floor are being explored as potential resources.
• Companies like DeepGreen are developing technologies to extract these resources with minimal environmental impact, such as zero tailings processes.

Key Insights

• Digital Strategy: Companies must develop a clear digital strategy that aligns with business value and long-term goals.
• Start Small: Digital transformation should begin with manageable initiatives, such as data visualization tools and real-time analytics.
• Digital Twin: Creating a digital twin of mining assets can improve planning, prediction, and simulation of future outcomes.
• Insight-Driven: Embedding data science and analytics throughout the organization is essential for making intelligent business decisions.
• Innovation Ecosystems: Collaboration with external partners is critical for overcoming innovation barriers and achieving sustainable growth.
• Systematized Innovation: Mining companies need to define and manage innovation as a portfolio, with clear metrics and incentives.
• Talent Management: The digital mine will require a shift in talent management, with a focus on diverse and inclusive workforces.
• Shareholder Expectations: Shareholders are increasingly demanding transparency, efficiency, and sustainable practices.
• Reserve Replacement: The challenge of replacing reserves is becoming more significant due to declining ore body grades and limited access to high-quality assets.
• Commodities of the Future: The industry must prepare for the emergence of new commodities and technologies that could reshape the market.

Conclusion

The mining sector is at a crossroads, where digital transformation and innovation are no longer optional but essential for long-term success. Companies must rethink traditional models, embrace data-driven insights, and foster collaboration to navigate the evolving landscape. The future of mining will be defined by those who can adapt quickly, leverage new technologies, and align innovation with strategic goals.