Digital Transformation is a Journey, Not a Destination
Digital transformation in mining integrates technologies like cloud computing, automation, and data analytics to optimize operations, enhance safety, reduce costs, and improve sustainability, driving productivity, efficiency, and long-term resilience.
Digital Transformation is a Journey, not a Destination
On 7 July 2021, the VCI Transformation Forum hosted Matthieu Risgallah, Vice President of Technology at Dundee Precious Metals (DPM), to speak on the role of technological innovation in creating safer, more efficient methods of resource extraction and processing. With over two decades of experience in digital transformation across asset-intensive industries, Risgallah shared key lessons from DPM’s digital evolution and emphasized the continuous nature of transformation in the mining sector.
DPM, an international gold mining company, has implemented a company-wide strategy to digitize operations by centralizing the workforce and creating a standardized roadmap for technology adoption. Risgallah made it clear that digital transformation is not a quick fix, but an ongoing process that requires long-term planning, engagement, and cultural alignment.
Why Digital Transformation Matters
Two major forces are driving rapid change across industries: the global rise of digital business, and the need for IT to adapt swiftly to support these changes. According to Risgallah, companies that fail to embrace transformation risk becoming “disconnected black boxes,” limited in transparency, agility, and growth. In contrast, digital maturity allows for a shift from reactive problem-solving to proactive planning, and from siloed systems to transparent, value-driven service units.
Transformation, he noted, must include the re-architecting of infrastructure, a focus on business intimacy, and improved project management. A well-executed digital strategy enables companies to develop high-value capabilities while offering broader career opportunities within a unified, global technology team.
Engaging Employees and Stakeholders
At the heart of successful transformation are people. Risgallah stressed that employees should not only understand digital initiatives but also participate in shaping them. For this to happen, companies must cultivate an open culture where teams can voice their needs and help design future processes.
Stakeholder engagement is equally important. Aligning beliefs, expectations, and objectives strengthens the organization’s ability to manage data, analytics, and service delivery cohesively. Empowering employees and stakeholders in this way reinforces trust and drives the transformation forward.
A Standardized but Flexible Framework
Risgallah underscored the importance of standardizing digital tools while remaining responsive to each department’s unique requirements. Software as a Service (SaaS) plays a crucial role in enabling workflow automation, remote access, and seamless integration across geographies.
He also highlighted the value of cloud platforms and Platform as a Service (PaaS) in accelerating digital deployment. These tools minimize manual input, enhance real-time collaboration, and streamline data access. Ultimately, they serve as the foundation for scalable, secure operations.
The Technology Strategy
Central to DPM’s transformation is a robust technology strategy focused on secure data management, modern infrastructure, and the implementation of a core data platform. This platform allows for centralized, remote collaboration aligned with global service objectives.
To support this strategy, DPM introduced a capability development program using platforms like Udemy. This initiative has helped employees transition from tacit to explicit knowledge, fostering career growth and deepening their understanding of digital tools.
Regular check-ins, clear communication, and performance metrics such as key performance indicators (KPIs) ensure that the entire workforce moves in the same direction.
From Vision to Execution
While leadership defines the digital vision, project managers play a critical role in execution. This involves adapting traditional workflows, embedding new technologies, and maintaining agility in the face of change. A clear digital roadmap should outline major goals, responsibilities, and timelines, while remaining adaptable to departmental needs.
Risgallah concluded by reminding the forum that digital transformation is far more than technology adoption. It requires the integration of tools into meaningful strategies that support every aspect of the business. Flexibility, accountability, and long-term commitment are essential to ensure sustainable progress.
