The ability to adapt to new technology is a critical and in-demand skill in the mining industry. Over the years, digital solutions have steadily integrated into mining operations, streamlining processes, improving communication and enhancing productivity.
One tool designed to track and coordinate your tasks digitally is Mipac’s TCard, a task management software that is built by miners for miners.
Mipac has successfully implemented TCard in a diverse range of operations. For these operations, TCard has transformed daily operations, enhanced task management and improved the success of the site.
So what are the steps involved in a typical TCard implementation?
Stage 1: the setup – laying the foundation
Introducing a new digital tool into a mining environment can be complex and time-consuming. However, with TCard the process is designed to be as smooth and intuitive as possible, with an experienced team of TCard experts guiding you every step of the way.
The setup begins with a clear understanding of your operation’s unique needs.
1. Understanding your operational context
Before diving into the setup, Mipac will map out the existing processes, workflows and tasks within your operation.
This involves identifying the key areas where TCard can have the most significant impact, such as shift handovers, task management and safety and risk management. By tailoring the setup to address specific challenges, the groundwork is laid for a seamless integration.
2. Configuration
TCard’s strength lies in its ability to be configured to fit the unique requirements of any mining operation.
During the setup phase, the software is configured to match your site’s operational procedures, multiple shift patterns and task schedules.
You will have a familiar interface that enhances, rather than disrupts, daily operations.
Stage 2: Onboarding and early implementation – navigating the learning curve
Once TCard is set up, the next phase is onboarding and early implementation. This period ensures the tool will be used successfully in the long term.
1. Onboarding and training
Successful adoption of any new tool hinges on how comfortable the team is when they are using it. TCard’s onboarding process is comprehensive, focusing on empowering operators, supervisors and managers to fully leverage the software’s capabilities.
Training sessions are designed to be hands-on, allowing users to interact with the system in real-time, addressing any questions or concerns as they arise. Comprehensive online documentation ensures that new staff are quickly up to speed and will be able to independently use TCard.
2. Initial results and feedback
Even in the early stages, TCard delivers noticeable improvements in task management and operational efficiency. The ability to track and audit tasks provides immediate value, reducing the likelihood of missed tasks and enhancing overall productivity.
Early successes, combined with ongoing feedback, refine the system and encourage increased adoption across the team.
At this stage, Mipac’s experts typically recommend a phased implementation for a small group within the operation. Instead of rolling out TCard to the entire team, the focus is on a smaller subset of users, such as a single crew. These team members use TCard daily across their shifts, providing initial feedback that helps refine the system. This approach creates a faster feedback loop, allowing for adjustments based on real-world use. As the process is fine-tuned and the supervisors and managers become more comfortable, the rollout gradually expands from the initial group to include larger teams, eventually encompassing the entire workforce. This step-by-step method ensures a smoother transition and more effective adoption of TCard.
3. Building trust in the system
Trust is built through consistent use, where operators and managers see firsthand the benefits of improved task visibility, streamlined handovers, and real-time communication.
From improved task visibility, streamlined handovers and real-time communication, teams can experience the benefits of TCard firsthand. With consistent use of TCard, operators and managers become more consistent, and familiarity and confidence grow.
Stage 3: Optimisation – unlocking the full potential of TCard
With the initial implementation complete and the team well-acquainted with the system, the focus shifts to optimisation — maximising the benefits TCard brings to your operation.
1. Initial integration and adoption
As TCard is introduced into daily operations, operators and managers will begin to notice how well it integrates with existing workflows.
During this stage, the team adapt to new ways of managing tasks and communicating across shifts.
2. Data-driven decision making
One of the most powerful aspects of TCard is its ability to capture and analyse data that was previously not being collected. This results in deeper insights into daily operations.
As TCard collects information on task completion, shift handovers and operational performance, this data can increase visibility and drive more informed decision-making across the plant.
Managers can identify trends, anticipate potential issues and adjust strategies to optimise efficiency and safety. This data-driven approach empowers your operation to continually improve and adapt to changing conditions, while also maximising production and minimising downtime.
3. Enhancing communication and collaboration
As TCard becomes more deeply integrated into your operation, it improves weak coordination through better team communication and collaboration.
TCard’s ability to provide a centralised platform for task management means that everyone, from operators to senior management, is on the same page.
This transparency helps break down silos, encourages teamwork and ensures that critical information is shared promptly and accurately.
As a result of the improved communication, operators and managers can expect to increase their visibility across tasks and miss fewer tasks, resulting in better outcomes.
Keep in mind, that the success of a TCard implementation hinges on the managers responding to and addressing operator comments and feedback that comes out of TCard. A fundamental part of the change management process is for the operators to be given a voice and receive feedback on their comments. If the manager ignores the operator’s comments, the comments will soon stop and TCard will stop being used to its full potential.
4. Continuous improvement and adaptation
The journey with TCard is an ongoing process of continuous improvement. As your operation evolves, so too does the way TCard is used.
Regular reviews of TCard’s use, alongside feedback from the team, ensures that TCard continues to meet your operation’s needs and supports its long-term goals.
The TCard journey – a path to operational excellence
The journey from setup to optimisation with TCard in a mining operation is one of transformation. What begins as a tool for managing tasks and improving communication quickly becomes a central component of your operation’s strategy for efficiency, safety and continuous improvement.
By carefully navigating each stage of this journey — setup, early implementation and optimisation — your operation can unlock the full potential of TCard. The result is a more streamlined, productive and resilient operation that is better equipped to face the challenges of the modern mining industry.
As the mining landscape continues to evolve, those who embrace tools like TCard will lead the way in operational excellence. Whether you’re just beginning your digital transformation journey or looking to optimise your current processes, TCard offers a path forward that is both innovative and practical.
Want to learn more about TCard?
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