Coleman Consulting Group
Mastering Strategic Scheduling in Mining Operations

Deep underground, in the heart of a mine, the margin for error is thin. The effectiveness of a mining operation often boils down to one crucial factor–a well-crafted work schedule. When done right, it optimizes mining operations, magnifies the output, and elevates the morale of the workforce.

At the helm of refining this pivotal aspect is Coleman Consulting Group (CCG). While CCG’s expertise spans various sectors, its knowledge in the mining industry stands out. Its innovative shift schedule designs and implementation strategies bridge the gap between on-the-ground execution systems and overarching business infrastructures. The result? Workforce management solutions that elevate operational efficiency and enhance the well-being and productivity of employees.

The Problem – Adherence to the Wrong Schedule

Mines around the globe typically operate with remarkable proficiency, but often within the confines of a standing schedule. Adept in their existing routines, they tend to overlook the transformative power of reimagining their schedules. While the existing “zombie schedules” might ensure adequate staffing, they often result in fatigued workers who are prone to accidents, deteriorated performance, or even dozing off during critical tasks.

“It’s not just about the hours clocked in or the days worked; it’s about building a system for deploying both capital and personnel, with employee buy-in, specific work, pay, and coverage policies,” says Frank Pereira, managing partner at CCG.

Historically, there’s been a scheduling paradox wherein those working the schedules often had minimal say in crafting them. CCG is challenging this notion. One of the key pillars of its approach is surveying employees. Engaging with the entire workforce, from the frontlines to the boardroom ensures that the designed schedules are not just theoretically sound but practically viable. This grassroots-level involvement ensures a collective buy-in, leading to greater adherence, fewer grievances, and improved productivity.

Navigating the Forest of Scheduling Challenges

“It all comes down to having a bigger perspective. Imagine standing in a forest, surrounded by towering trees. You’re so engrossed in the details of each tree that you miss out on seeing the entirety of the forest. That’s precisely where many organizations find themselves. They’re encumbered by what they perceive as insurmountable scheduling barriers. To find a way out, one needs a perspective from above the canopy,” says Pereira.

Through fresh insights and innovative approaches drawn from diverse industries, CCG guides organizations out of the forest, enabling them to build work schedules that resonate with the management as well as the field teams. CCG understands that work schedules are not one-size-fits-all. Different mining operations require different schedules, and while shift length is a significant factor, it’s only one component of a broader equation. Other variables like employee morale, health and safety regulations, machinery maintenance schedules, and seasonal variations play equally important roles in determining the right schedule.

CCG’s logo is reflective of its scheduling strategy blending Three Circles – Business Needs, Employee Desires, and Health & Safety. However, when clients contact CCG, their primary concern usually revolves around health and safety—the third and arguably most vital circle. A significant part of CCG’s role involves conducting robust health assessments post-accidents to ensure they don’t recur. At the heart of its methodology is an extensive proctored database. Having interacted with hundreds of workers across various mining sites, it possesses insights that inform, guide, and refine scheduling practices. This ensures that CCG’s scheduling solutions offer both predictability for operational demands and flexibility for individual employee needs.

Work Hard, Play Harder

Mining embodies a ‘work hard, play harder’ spirit, a philosophy deeply ingrained in CCG’s culture. With a stellar team from diverse sectors, it possesses a multi-dimensional understanding of business challenges—allowing it to provide a holistic perspective.

Industry giants such as Rio Tinto, Freeport-McMoRan, and Barrick entrust CCG with their workforce management solutions. A staggering 85 percent of CCG’s business comes from word of mouth or repeat customers, underscoring its tangible impact across industries.

In this industry, the allure of problem-solving never fades. Stepping outside the proverbial box and carving out win-win solutions where both the company profits and the employees benefit health and safety-wise, is the most gratifying part of the job. With industry stalwarts like Pereira leading the charge, Coleman Consulting Group is poised to embrace an era where the right schedule isn’t just an advantage; it’s an imperative.