Collaboration essential in meeting mining’s challenges: SAP

Global enterprise application software leader SAP is back at IMARC in 2026. The company, which has been supplying specialised software to metals and mining companies for more than 50 years, will be among more than 500 global technology and services firms at this year’s event.

SAP continues to help mine owners and operators deal with ever-increasing complexity by enabling them to manage complicated mining processes with one system. Well implemented SAP mining solutions provide a connected view of operations, replacing fragmented processes with reliable information that supports day-to-day decisions and long-term planning.

SAP senior marketing manager ANZ ENR & Utilities Industry and New Zealand Marketing, Jenny Conway, provides insights, below, into trends shaping the mining digital landscape in 2026.

What does SAP do and what role does it play in the mining industry?

SAP provides integrated enterprise software solutions that enable mining companies to optimise their operations across the value chain. By leveraging SAP technology, mining companies can enhance efficiency, improve safety and ensure sustainability in their operations. SAP's role in the industry includes providing advanced analytics, digital supply chain management and resource planning solutions that help address the unique challenges faced by mining operations.

What are you seeing as some of the biggest challenges facing the mining sector right now?

The sector is grappling with rising operational complexity driven by deeper and lower-grade deposits, persistent cost and capital pressures, workforce shortages, and the dual challenge of increasing production while reducing emissions. Commodity price volatility and evolving regulatory demands around safety, environment and critical minerals add further pressure. Improving productivity through better adoption of AI, data and technology has become essential.

What technologies, innovations or approaches do you think will have the biggest impact on mining over the next few years?

AI-powered predictive maintenance, IoT-enabled real-time monitoring, advanced analytics and autonomous equipment are set to deliver the greatest impact. These tools help reduce unplanned downtime, improve ore recovery and strengthen safety. Integrated planning platforms and digital twins are also becoming critical for better capital allocation and more resilient supply chains.

How is digital transformation changing the way mining companies manage their operations, people and supply chains?

Digital transformation is enabling mining companies to achieve unprecedented levels of efficiency and integration. Through digital platforms, companies can streamline operations, optimise human resources management, and create interconnected, intelligent supply chains. This shift not only reduces costs and inefficiencies but also improves agility and responsiveness to market changes.

How important is collaboration between mining companies, METS businesses and other parts of the ecosystem in tackling the challenges facing the sector, and has an event like IMARC played a role in building those connections for SAP?

Collaboration is essential in addressing the multifaceted challenges of the mining sector. By working together, mining companies and METS (Mining Equipment, Technology and Services) businesses can pool resources, share expertise, and develop innovative solutions. IMARC provides a vital platform for such collaboration, allowing SAP and other stakeholders to form strategic partnerships, explore synergies and drive industry-wide innovation.

Who are you hoping to connect with at IMARC this year, and what conversations or opportunities are you most looking forward to?

At IMARC, SAP aims to engage with industry leaders, technology innovators, and partners across the mining ecosystem. We are keen to discuss how digital technologies can drive transformation and sustainability in mining operations. We look forward to opportunities to collaborate on cutting-edge solutions that address critical industry challenges while exploring potential partnerships and business opportunities.

Can you share an example of a relationship, agreement, opportunity or other outcome that came from your involvement with IMARC?

Through previous IMARC conferences, SAP has successfully forged relationships with key industry players and technology partners that have led to impactful collaborations. For instance, our partnership with a major mining company resulted in the deployment of intelligent asset management solutions, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and reliability. IMARC provides the networking platform necessary to initiate and nurture such valuable partnerships.

For a deeper view of how SAP business leaders see the future of mining, visit them at stand N01 – H at IMARC 2026, Sydney ICC, from October 27-29.