Obtaining real-time information from sites and remote operations have been an evolving challenge for many businesses within the mining sector. Making real-time operational decisions with adequate data will no doubt shape mining operations in the next century and organisation pursuing mobility as a service or MaaS will likely be at the forefront of service related contracts in the mining sector.
We know that fully integrating workforces in the field with corporate management and keeping tabs on mobile vehicles and assets has always been problematic in mining given the tyranny of distances and the limitations of existing technology.
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The input of operational field data into IT systems has been traditionally mired by the lack of real-time information, often many systems are reliant on paper forms and regular data entry. These methods often result in inaccuracies and non-compliances and result in delays to real-time data. Management are then left without essential critical business information to make informed decisions.
An Australian business has developed a range of tools for simplifying the process of field information gathering. Smartrak’s powerful information gathering and analytical capabilities combined with Garmin’s feature-packed 790 telematics tablet is aiming to close the gap between corporate offices and field operations.
The technology is aimed at improved awareness of business operations beyond the car park and seeks to improve worker safety in parallel with operational performance. The integration of these two capabilities in one platform will no doubt become an industry standard practice as sites evolve beyond traditional data gathering activities.
Through operating on the open-source Android platform, the Garmin 790 integrates seamlessly with many existing mobile field force management programs, providing the platform for online job sheets, reporting, time sheets, and more via customised apps.
Smartrak’s GM of Product Strategy, Meredith Palmer highlights the value of real-time in-field data. “This is productivity, information sharing and duty of care story that resonates at all levels of an organisation, from remote workers to the C-suite.”
Management’s dream of migrating time-consuming paper tasks to a digital platform that easily, accurately and consistently reports and analyses day-to-day remote worker and vehicle activities now a reality with Smartrak and Garmin’s partnership.
“Superior navigation capabilities, world-class telematics and the exciting potential of the Android platform are bringing fundamental changes to our industry.” Said Troy O’Connor, CEO, Smartrak.
The seamless integration of management and remote worker environments within an integrated digital platform will undoubtedly be welcomed by organisations. The recognition of productivity enhancements and service responsiveness will help organisations deliver on their business goals. For organisations that are pursuing Mobility as a Service (MaaS) the implications are profound.
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