Mineral tracking tool blockchain based system
Product Design
MPV
2022 – 2023
Powered by blockchain technology, provides traceability and certification for the global mining supply chain. By facilitating coordination and collaboration between the mining industry and government, it enhances transparency and accountability in the sector.
Challenge
This can be particularly difficult in the mining industry, where transparency is not always a top priority and some actors may be hesitant to reveal certain information. Tracking minerals across complex supply chains that involve multiple countries, languages, and legal systems can be a daunting task, requiring sophisticated data management and analysis tools. By using DLT’s the project ensures the security and integrity of the data stored on the platform providing credibility and effectiveness.
Strategy
In order to identify the specific pain points that audience (mining companies, government regulators, and other stakeholders) are facing in tracking minerals across the supply chain by conducting interviews. I was able to gain valuable insights into user needs and behaviours, which in turn informs potential areas of application.
Results
After conducting research and design work, I was able to test the prototype with some stakeholders and the government. The platform was able to optimize communication by 70% and improve the information loading process, which was one of the most problematic areas.
Government Regulator
I often have to request records and data from mining companies in order to ensure compliance with regulations. However, I’ve had trouble finding the necessary information because it’s presented without a receipt or clear organization. This causes delays and frustration in my work.
Mining Company Employee
I’m responsible for entering data into a system to ensure traceability of our minerals. However, the current process requires me to submit multiple unclear forms, which makes it difficult to add all the necessary information. This leads to inaccuracies and errors in our records.
Industry Analyst
I rely on accurate statistics and data from mining companies in order to make informed predictions and recommendations. However, I often face delays in obtaining the final review of these statistics, which can take up to two years. This makes it challenging to stay up-to-date with industry trends and developments.
Understanding the problem
After taking a deep dive into how the information was flowing, I spotted a bottleneck. So, I came up with an idea to split the flow and only allow specialists to upload info with permissions on the platform. And it worked like a charm. It optimized the process by more than 50% compared with the former system.
Structure MAP
To understand the scope, I divided the approach into several sections. This allowed me to realise the steps that should be taken and adapt the system. As laws and regulations are constantly evolving, I decided to use Atomic Design, providing freedom to each stage of the process.
Internal functions
By understanding the overall functioning, I broke it down into specific sections to allow for evaluation and support throughout all stages of the mining process, from exploration to exploitation, transportation and export logistics, increasing traceability all the way to the final stage of mineral disposal.
Notifications and signifiers
The creation of a specific communication system within the platform to provide visibility at all times to the mining processes. This was achieved through notifications, email systems, and UI elements.
Improvement in the
Search capacity
The product was able to improve the search of uploaded records by 100%. Additionally, now both the government and mining agents have their receipts and access to the system in real-time.
Data entry
optimization
The data entry was optimized, now only numerical values need to be completed, and users can leave comments and attach documentation. All of this summarized in an optimized loading form.
Time
reduction
The product was able to significantly reduce the time it took to complete tasks, going from an average of 1 to 2 years to a maximum period of 60 days.
I was responsible for:
UX Research
Creative and UX Design process
User testing and insights
Product UI
Content Design