Development of a project management framework for the digitalisation of mining operations

Abstract

Background: The topics of digitalisation and project management have received increasing attention in the 21st century due to the important role they play in organisational success.

Objectives: The article makes use of an exploratory approach to determine the push factors and challenges disrupting digitalisation as well as the key success factors that influence the use of digitalisation to support project managers in a mining organisation.

Method: A qualitative approach was undertaken in this study, categorised by an interpretive lens. Twelve authoritative capacity participants were purposively selected and interviewed face-to-face to identify the subjective nature of reality and phenomena.

Results: The study findings strongly suggest that, in order to improve project management digitalisation within the organisation and improve organisational efficiency, consideration should be given to the push factors for digitalisation. However, challenges such as resistance to change and infrastructure limitations disrupt the digitalisation process. The findings also revealed that key success factors include leadership and organisational support, which should also be taken into account when implementing digitalisation.

Conclusion: It can be concluded that the aim of the study has been met and the research objective reached.

Contribution: Given the importance of project management digitalisation, especially in the mining sector, the study makes a unique and meaningful contribution through empirically determined findings. Specifically, this study contributes to the body of knowledge by providing influential factors for digitalising project management. In addition, the development of the conceptual project management framework provides sound contributions to further advance the field of study.