Mining technology company idoba has won the Innovation Award in the 2025 Mining Technology Excellence Awards for its simulation software, idoba.sim, which is changing how underground mines approach load and haul optimisation by providing site teams with accessible, data-driven tools for operational decision-making.
The Mining Technology Excellence Awards honor the most significant achievements and innovations in the mining industry. Powered by GlobalData’s business intelligence, the Awards recognise the people and companies leading positive change and shaping the future of the industry.
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idoba won the award in the Operational Simulation category for developing a groundbreaking platform that empowers underground mining teams to optimise performance and make informed decisions through accessible, real-time simulation tools.
One of the main reasons idoba won the Award was its focus on making simulation technology practical and accessible for those working at mine sites. Traditionally, underground mining simulations have been handled by either external consultants or technical experts, which often led to lengthy turnaround times and studies that struggled to keep up with the fast-changing realities underground. By offering a cloud-based software solution, idoba.sim allows site engineers and supervisors to access simulation tools from anywhere with an internet connection—eliminating the need for specialised hardware or complex installations.
The platform is built with the realities of underground mining in mind. Its interface uses terminology and visual elements familiar to mining professionals, so users can set up and run simulations without needing advanced mathematical or modeling skills. For example, a supervisor can enter details like the number of trucks and loaders, the locations of stockpiles, or the specifics of a shift schedule, then watch how these factors play out in a 3D visualisation of their underground haulage network. With access to such information, teams on site can work together to test ideas and solve problems in real time, rather than waiting for external reports that may arrive too late to be useful.
Short-interval, shift-level simulations are another key feature. With idoba.sim, teams can quickly adjust to unexpected events—such as a sudden equipment failure or a change in production targets—by running new scenarios on the spot. This flexibility is valuable in underground environments, where conditions can change rapidly and timely decisions are critical for both productivity and safety. The cloud-based setup also ensures that updates and improvements to the software are delivered automatically, so users always have access to the latest features without any disruption to their workflow.
Scenario-based analysis supports productivity, cost efficiency, and risk management
What sets idoba.sim apart from many other tools is its use of agent-based modeling. Instead of relying on averages or static assumptions, the software simulates the actions and interactions of individual pieces of equipment—such as trucks, loaders, and even stockpiles—within the actual layout of a mine. This approach reveals operational patterns and bottlenecks that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Take, for example, a scenario where a mine is considering adding more trucks to a haulage route. With idoba.sim, the team can see not only the potential increase in throughput but also whether the extra trucks might cause congestion or delays at loading points. The software highlights where assets are underutilised or where traffic jams are likely to occur, giving teams the information they need to make targeted improvements.
The software solution also supports forward-looking analysis. As underground mine operators explore ways to optimise their load and haul, idoba.sim makes it easy for teams to model these changes before making any major investments. For instance, users can quickly create and compare multiple scenarios side-by-side to understand the trade-offs. This helps mine engineers make informed decisions, manage risks, and avoid costly missteps.
Reporting and visualisation features add another layer of value. Performance indicators such as tonne-kilometers per shift, loader cycle times, and fleet utilisation are tracked and presented in clear, actionable charts and tables. The 3D playback tool allows teams from different departments—engineering, operations, and management—to see the same data and develop a shared understanding of the challenges and opportunities ahead. This supports better alignment and more effective decision-making across the organisation.
Secure, scalable, and aligned with industry needs
Beyond its operational strengths, idoba.sim has been recognised for its robust approach to data security and scalability—both essential in today’s mining landscape. idoba.sim is powered by the world-class infrastructure of Amazon Web Services (AWS) and idoba’s information systems are ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certified.
Scalability is another advantage with the software. By leveraging cloud infrastructure, idoba.sim can handle the heavy computational demands of complex simulations without requiring mines to invest in additional IT resources. This makes advanced simulation accessible to operations of all sizes, regardless of their existing digital capabilities.
This broader, systems-based perspective means simulation is no longer a one-off exercise but an ongoing part of operational planning. By enabling teams to test, refine, and validate strategies in a virtual setting, idoba.sim helps mines become more agile, informed, and resilient—qualities that are increasingly important as the sector faces deeper orebodies, rising costs, and growing expectations.
“This award is recognition of the incredible team behind idoba.sim – engineers, developers, designers, miners, analysts, and simulation experts from all corners of the world. It’s the diversity of cultures, disciplines, and experiences that has turned an ambitious idea into a tool already changing how mining pre-feasibility studies and short-term planning are done. I’m proud of what we’ve built together, and even more excited about where this journey takes us next. Above all, this is a celebration of the resilience and creativity it takes to push the boundaries of what’s possible.”
– David Andrews, Product Manager, idoba
Company Profile
idoba is a leading provider of innovative software solutions tailored for the mining and resource industry. Based in Perth, Western Australia, idoba operates as a proud member of the Perenti Group, with the esteemed Sumitomo Corporation as an equity stakeholder.
With over 35 years of mining expertise and a global presence, idoba stands at the forefront of digital innovation in the sector. Renowned for its commitment to delivering transformative digital solutions, idoba partners with the world’s leading mining companies to drive operational excellence.
By combining deep mining knowledge, advanced data science capabilities, and comprehensive full-stack development, idoba is dedicated to creating the next generation of software that empowers clients world-wide.
Our mission is to enhance the performance and sustainability of mining operations, ensuring a better future for mine operators and the industry as a whole. At idoba, we believe in harnessing technology to revolutionise how mining companies operate, paving the way for greater efficiencies and safety.
Join us in shaping the future of mining through innovation and collaboration.
Contact Details
To request a demonstration of idoba.sim, E-mail: hello@idoba.com
Links
Website: www.idoba.com
