This isn’t another blog explaining preventive maintenance. When a machine breaks, it needs fixing fast. Aim is to not let it get to that point.
We’re not here to say NetSuite fixes everything either; that’d be stretching it a bit. We’re here to share five tips and celebrate our customer, Protex Water, who’s not just changing mining but mastering the art of working smarter.
Shining a Light on the Sector
It’s no secret, the mining industry gets a bit of bad press—environmental concerns and logistical nightmares are the tip of the iceberg. And yes, there are always the odd public relations hiccups, like Gina Rinehart’s recent scuffle over her not-so-flattering artistic portrayal… But look past the headlines, and you’ll find an industry that’s the robust backbone of Australia’s economy. Companies like Protex Water are great examples of how crucial this sector is to our national prosperity and identity.
Making an Impact
Take Protex Water’s latest project in Moranbah, Queensland, for example. Tasked with developing a sewage treatment plant for a BMA-operated mine, Protex installed cutting-edge technology to manage wastewater from the site’s facilities. This system includes advanced processes like hydrocarbon removal and MLE biological treatment, culminating in water purification to Class A standard.
Protex’s sewage plant project not only helps BMA ensure compliance with strict environmental standards but also enhances the operational efficiency of the mine. The result? A significant reduction in the ecological footprint of mining operations. This example showcases how suppliers like Protex Water are crucial in making this Aussie industry more sustainable and less impactful.
Protex Water has been a beacon of innovation in water management and treatment, especially for the mining sector. Since our partnership began back in October 2019—when they were still known as AKS Industries—we’ve witnessed their transformation. Their projects don’t just meet the industry standards; they push the boundaries of what’s possible, setting new benchmarks for sustainability and efficiency.
Practical Tips for Mining Suppliers
For all you suppliers to the mining world, here are five proven tips from CFOs in mining supply who have partnered with us on refining their operations—not just with software, but through smarter processes:
1.
Get a robust scheduler and ditch the spreadsheets. Use a connected calendar tool that pulls jobs, parts, inventory, and billing. Features like drag-and-drop, colour coding, easy team-up, and location maps are key. Billing on the spot, including parts and expenses, is a dream. It’s a time investment, but worth it for growth and seamless operations.
2.
Remote monitoring is crucial. Use IoT devices to keep an eye on equipment spot issues early, and set up dashboards that your staff can react to. Selling these devices also opens up opportunities to upsell services. Remember, it’s not just about extra revenue but keeping your customers working smoothly.
3.
Track inventory in vans to avoid lost stock, and enable staff phones to consume inventory from the warehouse and vans, log sick leave, and work hours. Provide easy tools to connect, eliminating manual tasks and waiting times. Set up dashboards with OKRs like billable hours and fix rates to keep everyone focused. Stop chasing staff—empower them.
4.
With labour shortages and high turnover, simplify their work from day one. Skip countless training sessions and enable on-site forms with checks and guides. Provide offline manuals for regional areas and build a robust CRM storing past services, relationships, and contracts. This way, new staff can quickly service customers as if they’ve always been doing it.
5.
Make sure your departments work together smoothly and keep everyone in the loop. Use shared calendars, dashboards and reports so everyone knows what’s happening. It makes everything run better and keeps everyone happy.
Let’s Talk About Your Journey
It’s more than just technology; it’s about empowering people to connect and work smarter. In the mining industry, this means driving Australia’s growth and ensuring sustainability.
Interested? We’re looking to partner with people who are keen on generating wealth and value. Drop us a line. Let’s explore how we can simplify your work.
Go Beyond. Go Klugo.
