Choosing the right contract model for open-pit mining projects requires a robust due diligence process that can evaluate the trade-offs between conventional and EPC contracts.

EPC contracting can provide significant benefits over conventional contracting in terms of risk reduction, coordination improvement, innovation enhancement, and value increase.

When you think about implementing owner-operator mining, it is necessary to ensure that it will be advantageous before start making changes. Running a pilot program concurrent with your open-pit unit rate mining contract allows you to test diverse aspects on a small scale. Before you make an investment in technology, equipment or manpower, you need to know if these solutions will be appropriate for your business.

Commonly, cost estimates for mining and infrastructure are much less reliable than process plants. To improve the performance of feasibility studies, they should be scrutinised through peer review and audit.

Several strategies can be used to realize the earliest positive ROI for startup open-pit mines. One of the most important strategies is to optimize the production plan by ensuring an uninterrupted ore feed and maximizing the net present value.

From estimation through to execution, all construction resources (manpower, equipment and materials) are accounted for, and project management shifts to complying with the Project Development Plan.