Asset Management in the Mining Sector Based on Reliable and Sustainable Supplier Selection: A South African Case Scenario

Abstract Asset management is fast becoming the backbone of modern production as it enables production facilities to operate at a high level of availability, reliability, and operability. One of the major challenges facing the mining sector is the identification of reliable and sustainable suppliers necessary for a matured asset management program (MAMP). This study contributes to that direction. The classical techniques have been used for the selection of sustainable suppliers for optimal operations of mines. However, a survey was conducted among executives and mine operators in the South African mining industry, the results obtained clearly illustrate that the industry employs economic, environmental, and social criteria in the selection of reliable and sustainable suppliers for asset management necessary for the optimal operation of the mining industry. This study further revealed that for the mining industry to operate at an optimal level, it requires a global MAMP, comprising of systems, people, equipment, spare parts, and services. A computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) facilitates the planning, scheduling, workflow, material flow, information flow, purchasing, and inventory management of mining operations. The effectiveness of the Technique for Order Performance by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) and Best Worst Method (BWM) was demonstrated in this study to address the challenges encountered by decision-makers in selecting a reliable and sustainable CMMS within the mining space. In conclusion, selecting a reliable and sustainable supplier that satisfies the key performance indicators of the organization is crucial in attaining optimum operational performance and meeting the business needs of the organization.