Success and failure factors for the adoption of technology in modern mining

Abstract

Technological advancement and innovation allows mining companies to be more competitive and address some of its most pressing challenges including, depleting resources, productivity levels, cost efficiencies and societal and environmental impact. It is essential for mining firms to understand the contributing factors that would allow them to be successful and remain competitive in its efforts for sustainable production of mineral resources. There are a range of factors that make technology adoption in modern mining fail or succeed and this paper makes use of qualitative data collected through interviews with mining experts to safety representatives to identify the key factors that will enable mining firms to be more successful in their technology journey. Additionally, this paper will provide practical recommendations and a systems-thinking approach to integrate into the mining firms’ technology adoption process, which will support their efforts towards technological advancement and mechanisation.