Seequent report calls for stronger data frameworks to help geoprofessionals realize AI benefits

Seequent, the Bentley Subsurface company, says mining and civil geoprofessionals still struggle to unlock value from increasingly complex, multisource datasets despite turning to AI, according to its 7th Geoprofessionals Data Management Report. Seequent operates in more than 150 countries and is headquartered in New Zealand.

The global report, based on a survey of more than 1,000 geoprofessionals worldwide, finds teams grappling with complex datasets across multiple software platforms, unmanaged historical data, and significant time spent on routine data administration.

“According to the report findings, geoprofessionals on average spend over a quarter of their time on data management. They are actively seeking to harness the information it contains for competitive advantage, but limited data frameworks mean too much time is spent managing data, versus interpreting results," Angela Harvey, chief customer officer for Seequent, said.

Both civil and mining geoprofessionals cite problems with data quality, integrating diverse sources, and accessing reliable historical data, and many organisations lack a centralized single source of truth. The report also shows growing AI interest: across all industries 51% of organisations now use or are considering AI, up from 30% two years ago.

“Data is the most valuable asset of any organisation, and it's clear from our report that both the civil sector and the mining sector are ready to unlock that value. The surge in AI consideration shows a clear appetite for innovation. The opportunity now is to build the data foundations that will allow these technologies to thrive and deliver on their promise of a more efficient and sustainable future," Harvey said.

In mining, 80% of geoprofessionals rate data management as highly or critically important, and they spend almost a third of their time on data management tasks. The report finds only 39% of mining organisations have a defined data management framework.

“In mining, data isn't just a byproduct of operations but the core asset that drives every decision, from exploration to reclamation. Our report shows that the industry is laser-focused on data management, but it also highlights the next major challenge: unlocking the full value from current and historical data, as the mining industry positions itself for a future where AI and automation will be increasingly important," Dr Janina Elliott, segment director of mining at Seequent, said.

In civil infrastructure, 69% of geoprofessionals rate data management as critically or highly important, and they spend more than a fifth of their time on data tasks. The report finds 41% of civil organizations have an established framework and only 30% maintain a formal data chain of custody.

“The civil sector is grappling with a data paradox. Geoprofessionals are spending a significant amount of their time — a full day a week — on data management, yet they still face challenges that impact project outcomes. Our report shows that while the will to be data-driven is there, the foundational frameworks for success are often missing," Pat McLarin, segment director for civil at Seequent, said.

The Geoprofessionals Data Management Report, 7th Edition, provides a comprehensive view of data management in the mining and civil infrastructure industries and is available from Seequent.

The full report can be obtained at www.Seequent.com/community/research-reports/geoprofessionals-data-management-report-7th-edition/