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and gain a breadth of visibility they probably haven ’ t achieved before . In our work with companies , we spend time with different departments and connect all the data that flows between them . This process often proves surprising to the client in terms of what it yields , for example , the insight that different departments lack oversight of the type of data used by each other . A shift in organizational mindset and culture can drive success in digitalizing data and , in turn , can continue to evolve through the insights gained .
Optimizing Granny Smith
By applying a more cohesive strategy to data through digitalization , mining companies can drive business progress more consistently , as shown in our work with the Granny Smith Gold Mine for the global gold miner , Gold Fields . Implementing and integrating a digital fleet management system to support the latest Industry 4.0 interoperability standards has enabled more efficient and profitable extraction of gold from a mine that has been in operation in Australia since 2005 . Applying ABB ’ s digital fleet management system , underpinned by the ABB Ability Operations Management System has provided an unprecedented level of visibility and insight . It has also helped to support a cleaner environment , as equipment and activities are organized into a seamless workflow .
Sensors applied to machinery at Granny Smith constantly monitor and transmit the location and operational status of critical equipment and personnel . Employees can now receive documents and work orders via computer tablets , as well as being able to easily report on the completion of tasks or interruptions to the schedule . This realtime data enables their operations and fleet management systems to maximize the utilization of equipment and orchestrate the workforce to progress more seamlessly from task to task , adapting to events as they occur . Once embedded in mine procedures , this fully interoperable system will allow Gold Fields to manage operations at Granny Smith in real-time from a centralized control room .
Harnessing data ’ s potential
As the example of the Granny Smith Gold Mine demonstrates , achieving measurable progress in challenging and complex
Meaningful and wideranging data plays a pivotal role in connecting workforces environments is about much more just accessing data . The key is the way in which that data is integrated and managed . An effective , real-worlddriven approach to digitalization empowers companies to address the many challenges presented by data , transforming it from a challenge into an asset . ■
For a list of the sources used in this article , please contact the editor .
Sanjit Shewale go . abb / processautomation
Sanjit Shewale is Global Business Line Manager , Digital , ABB Process Industries . ABB ’ s Process Automation business automates , electrifies and digitalizes industrial operations that address a wide range of essential needs – from supplying energy , water and materials , to producing goods and transporting them to market . With its ~ 20,000 employees , leading technology and service expertise , ABB Process Automation helps customers in process , hybrid and maritime industries improve performance and safety of operations , enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future .
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