The Progression and challenges in the implementation of a Waste Management System

This paper presents insights generated from an ongoing client-pilot program that is exploring how the Integrated Tailings Management System (HITMS), a digitally integrated software system developed to improve the workflow of Tailings Management Facilities by connecting data throughout the Tailings lifecycle, leading to greater coordination and operational excellence.While the industry tends to focus on specific moments in the tailings lifecycle, the development and implementation journey of HITMS revealed that much stronger and distinct value can be generated by connecting all aspects of Tailings Management in real-time, from dewatering and transport to deposition and storage, combining the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM) and custom performance protocols.By implementing the system at two geographically and culturally unique sites, HITMS is able to showcase how it can address the distinct needs of one site, while also having standardization that allows for the understanding and eventual rollup for a portfolio of sites.HITMS provides a comprehensive suite of tools to manage, integrate, and visualize field data, monitor asset performance and operating thresholds, optimize job scheduling, and ensure improved regulatory compliance.The challenges encountered include data integration and migration, integration of existing workflows and systems, implementation of a holistic approach, user experience and resistance to change, amongst others.During implementation, digital and tailings technical teams engaged with the pilot clients with the aim to solve their operational challenges and ensure that the experience can be extended to other tailings facilities.As the system is being implemented, modules have been developed with the required functionalities to provide a flexible system that can be managed and customized by the user.