You're at odds with geologists on resource estimation. How do you find common ground?

Align on the Goal: Start by reaffirming that both parties want an accurate, reliable resource estimate that serves the organization’s strategic needs. Clarify Assumptions: Identify and discuss the assumptions behind each viewpoint, modeling methods, etc. This helps reveal where interpretations diverge. Use Objective Data: Lean on independently verified data or third-party audits where possible to reduce subjective bias and build trust in the numbers. Bring in a Peer Review: Sometimes a third-party expert or cross-functional review can offer an unbiased perspective and help reconcile differences. Agree on a Path for Reconciliation: Decide together how to update the model or collect additional data if needed to resolve uncertainties.

In my early days on-site, I’ll admit—I used to get frustrated when resource models from geology didn’t line up with what we saw during drilling or early production. 🫤🫤 But over time, I realised the issue wasn’t the model—it was the disconnect between how geologists and engineers were interpreting the data. Once we started sitting down together early in the planning phase with the PRODUCT TEAM everything shifted.

Understand their perspective: Actively listen to the geologists' viewpoints, reasoning, and the data they rely on. Try to understand the geological principles and methods they use for resource estimation. This shows respect for their expertise and helps in identifying the root causes of the disagreement. Share your own views: Clearly and objectively present your own perspective, including the methods, data, and assumptions you used. Explain the reasons behind your estimation approach, emphasizing any unique factors or considerations that you believe are relevant. What do u think ??

Understanding the distinct roles and responsibilities in resource estimation can indeed bridge the gap between mining engineers and geologists. Here's how: Roles and Responsibilities Mining Engineers 1. *Mine planning and design*: Mining engineers are responsible for designing and planning the mine layout, extraction methods, and infrastructure. 2. *Resource extraction*: They oversee the extraction

Understanding the distinct roles and responsibilities in resource estimation can indeed bridge the gap between mining engineers and geologists. Here's how: Roles and Responsibilities Mining Engineers 1. *Mine planning and design*: Mining engineers design and plan the mine layout, extraction methods, and infrastructure. 2. *Resource extraction*: They oversee the extraction process, ensuring that resources are extracted efficiently and safely. 3. *Operational optimization*: Mining engineers optimize mining operations to minimize costs, maximize production, and ensure safety.

Acknowledge that geologists bring domain expertise in interpreting subsurface data, while you (perhaps as an engineer, financier, or manager) may bring operational, economic, or strategic insights. Aligning around the fact that both views are essential helps reduce friction.

Understanding roles is essential for effective collaboration and productivity. Clearly defining each team member’s responsibilities helps eliminate confusion, reduces overlap, and ensures accountability. It also allows individuals to play to their strengths, leading to better performance and job satisfaction. When everyone knows their role, coordination becomes smoother, decisions are faster, and goals are more easily achieved. Whether in leadership, support, or execution, understanding and respecting roles builds trust and strengthens the team dynamic. Clear roles are the foundation of success in any organization.

Understanding the distinct roles and responsibilities in resource estimation can indeed bridge the gap between mining engineers and geologists. Here's how: Roles and Responsibilities Geologists 1. *Resource definition*: Geologists define the mineral resource, including its quantity, quality, and geological characteristics. 2. *Data collection and analysis*: They collect and analyze data from drilling, sampling, and other exploration activities.

Communication is the key to building trust, resolving conflicts, and creating meaningful connections in both personal and professional life. Clear, honest, and empathetic communication helps align expectations, reduce misunderstandings, and foster collaboration. It’s not just about speaking—listening actively is equally vital. Tailor your message to your audience, use positive body language, and ensure your tone matches your intent. In times of crisis or uncertainty, strong communication can inspire confidence and guide teams forward. Mastering this skill opens doors, strengthens leadership, and is the foundation of lasting success.

Create a neutral space for open dialogue. Ask questions to understand their assumptions, models, and data sources. Avoid technical debates before establishing context.

Bring together geological models, drilling results, production forecasts, and economic data into one cohesive analysis. Shared tools or visualizations (like 3D models or dashboards) help unite perspectives.

Data integration is the process of combining data from different sources into a unified view, enabling better analysis, decision-making, and operational efficiency. It helps organizations break down data silos, streamline workflows, and gain insights from a comprehensive dataset. Effective data integration involves data cleansing, transformation, and consistent formatting. With the rise of big data, cloud platforms, and real-time analytics, integration tools have become essential for businesses to stay competitive. Whether it’s for customer insights, performance tracking, or predictive modeling, seamless data integration lays the foundation for smarter, data-driven strategies.

Reiterate the shared goal: accurate, credible resource estimates that support investment and operational decisions. Emphasizing the bigger picture encourages collaboration over silos.

Joint objectives are shared goals agreed upon by all parties in a collaboration or partnership. They create a common purpose, align efforts, and enhance accountability. When everyone works toward the same outcome, communication improves, trust deepens, and progress becomes measurable. Clear joint objectives reduce confusion, prevent duplication of efforts, and foster synergy. For success, these goals should be specific, realistic, and mutually beneficial. Regular check-ins and performance reviews help ensure all stakeholders stay aligned. Ultimately, joint objectives empower teams to achieve more collectively than they could individually.

Be willing to challenge your own assumptions and acknowledge uncertainty. Consider creating best-, worst-, and most-likely-case scenarios to reflect different perspectives.

Flexibility matters—especially in a fast-changing world. Being adaptable allows you to respond effectively to unexpected challenges and seize new opportunities. Whether it’s shifting client demands, market trends, or internal dynamics, those who remain flexible can adjust their strategies and stay ahead. Flexibility fosters innovation, encourages collaboration, and builds resilience. It’s not about compromising your goals, but about finding smarter ways to reach them. Embracing change with a flexible mindset turns obstacles into growth opportunities and ensures long-term success in both personal and professional life.

Promote cross-functional knowledge sharing. If team members understand each other’s constraints and methodologies better, trust and cooperation grow.