Abstract:
This paper adopts an interpretive case study approach to understand the role of digital
technologies in addressing seemingly contradictory sustainability goals in mining. The
sociotechnical model of information systems was used as a framework to guide the analysis
of twenty-five in-depth interviews with globally dispersed digital technology experts working
collaboratively at an industry-leading hi-tech mining solutions company. The sociotechnicalled thematic analysis findings highlight the trade-offs experts face in balancing narrow
technological imperatives and economic outcomes with broader sustainability goals. The
analysis moves beyond the technological and economic to a harmonious perspective of social,
human, environmental, and technological interactions. A visual thematic map is presented to
aid practitioners in designing and optimally implementing digital technologies to
simultaneously address the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals while prioritising
business sustainability. We conclude by drawing from the proposed sociotechnical
perspectives approach for digital sustainability to provide scholars with possible pathways for
future responsible information systems research.
