Cw31641675

Nana Yaw Asabere, Simonov Kusi-Sarpong / International Journal of Engineering Research
and Applications (IJERA) ISSN: 2248-9622 www.ijera.com
Vol. 3, Issue 1, January -February 2013, pp.641-675
The Relationship and Role of Information &Communication
Technology (ICT) in the Mining Industry: An Analysis ofSupply
Chain Management (SCM) – A Case Study
Nana Yaw Asabere*, Simonov Kusi-Sarpong**
*(School of Software Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning Province, P.R. China)
**(School of Management and Economics, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning Province, P.R.
China)

ABSTRACT
An increasing number of researches Lucas Jr. and Spitler [4] argued that, the investment
have been made around Supply Chain of ICT in the supply chain process systems does not
Management (SCM) and the Relationship and warrant an increase in the business performance.
Role Information and Communication This is because having the right ICT system is just
Technology (ICT) plays towards its improvement one side of the solution whereas training for the use
and sustainability. SCM initiatives driven by ICT of the ICT system to function properly forms the
brings along synchronized workflow which tends other side of the solution. In our previous work [5],
to simplify the complexity of procurement, order we reviewed and justified the significant roles ICT
processing and financial flow, which help deals plays in SCM and also outlined the importance of
with volatile demand resulting from frequent ICT in SCM. With reference to our previous work
changes in competition, technology and and the relevant literature, there is no doubt that ICT
regulations. However, practical insight to is very important in SCM for sustainable output and
addressing the relationship and role ICT plays in Return of Investments of companies and
the SCM based on real world contemporary case organisations. Through qualitative and quantitative
studies, are limited. Through qualitative and research methodologies as well as review of relevant
quantitative research methodologies as well as literature, this paper targets the Mining Industry in
review of relevant literature, our paper targets Ghana, specifically, Adamus Resources Limited -
the Mining Industry, specifically, Adamus Nzema Operations, located in Ghana to close this
Resources Limited - Nzema Gold Mine, a gap and realize the importance of ICT in SCM in the
Subsidiary of Endeavour Mining Corporation, Mining Industry of Ghana.
located in Ghana to close this gap. Our paper is structured as follows. In the
subsections of Introduction, we discuss the History
Keywords:Supply Chain Management (SCM), of Mining in Ghana; give a Brief Background of our
Information and Communication Technology (ICT), case study Gold Mine (Adamus Resources Limited -
Improving and Sustaining Standards of SCM, Nzema Gold Mine). Furthermore, in the subsections
Mining Industry, Mine, Ghana of Introduction, we elaborate on SCM Procedures of
the Mine through ICT and discuss our Research
1. INTRODUCTION Objectives. In Section II, we elaborate on our
Today‟s Supply Chain Management (SCM) literature review of the paper by discussing the
is being viewed by many businesses as an approach review of relevant literatures on the relationship and
that serves as a key source for competitive gains role of ICT in the SCM of the Mining Industry,
[1].Information plays a crucial and dominant role in presenting the definition and theory underlying what
contemporary organization. It serves as the glue role ICT plays in SCM in the Mining Industry,
between the supply chains and customers as well as discussing how ICT has helped to improve SCM in
facilitating other processes, departments and the Mining Industry, and what can be done to
organizations to work together to build an improve and sustain standards of SCM through ICT
integrated, and coordinated function [2]. Over the in the Mining Industry. Section III presents our
last decade, ICT tools and techniques have evolved Research Methodology and outlines the selected
from just being a support function to an essential approaches and tools we used for the collection and
tool of decision-making process. analyses of the data pertaining to the subject under
However, as a result of this, the use of ICT investigations. Section IV presents the summary of
in businesses is deemed a prerequisite for the our research results findings from both
effective management of current complex supply questionnaire responses and management
chains [3]. Indeed ICT implementation drives SCM interviews. Section V finally concludes the paper by
initiatives by bringing multiple process changes in presenting discussions on our research findings and
both suppliers and customers, which leads to linking our findings back to the relevant literature.
information integration, and coordinated workflow In Section V, we further discuss the limitations of
as well as synchronized planning [2]. However,

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the paper, and puts forth recommendations, future potential of the underlying sulphide mineralization
workand conclusion remarks. along the Salman trend [7].

A. History of Gold Mining in Ghana C.SCM Procedures of the Mine Through ICT
Ghana has a long history of mining, The supply chain management processes of
especially for gold. Gold from Ghana (gold coast) the Mine starts from customer needs /demands and
was traded to Europe at least as early as the tenth ends at the point where the customer‟s needs
century. In the early colonial times, it is thought /demands are fully and satisfactory met. In the past
that, annually more than a quarter of a million however, each department had its own computer
ounces of gold reached Europe from African system that focused on sub-optimization. In this
sources. The Precambrian auriferous Tarkwa modern era, ICT have made it possible for the
conglomerates of Ghana were developed in a introduction of Enterprise Resources Planning
modern way during the period 1876-1882 by Pierre (ERP) systems such as pronto to manage many
Bonnat, the father of modern gold mining in the supply chains. With the introduction of ERP
Gold Coast [6]. In 1895, Ashanti Goldfields systems, all departments and functions along the
Corporation began work in the Obuasi district of supply chain are integrated into a single computer
Ghana, developing the Ashanti and other Mines, system that serves all these different departments'
which have produced the largest proportion of gold particular needs. This ERP system act as an
since 1900 in the countries of the Gold Coast. All of integrated software program that operate on a single
these deposits are of Precambrian age [6]. database to enable smooth and easy sharing of
At the Obuasi Mine, over the years, 25 million information and communicate with each other.
ounces of gold were mined. At Bogoso, since The Mine SCM processes make provision for the
mining operations commenced in 1873, more than following:
nine million ounces of gold were produced, largely
from extensive underground operations [6]. 1. Demand Management
The demand management processes of the
B. Brief Background of the Mine (Adamus Mine‟s SCM are the processes taken to balance the
Resources Limited - Nzema Gold Mine) customers‟ demands with the capabilities of the
Adamus Resources Limited (a Subsidiary supply chain. In the Mine‟s SCM, the pronto system
of Endeavour Mining) is located in south-western is used to create reorder reports which determine the
part of the Republic of Ghana, about 280km west of reorder quantity of stock items (which serves as the
Ghana's capital city, Accra [7]. The Mine announced demand) or facilitates the calculation of the
its interest in developing the Nzema Gold Mine in quantities of stock items to be purchased (which is
2009 with a designed mill throughput of 2.1 million also referred to as the need). This report is
tonnes per annum ("mtpa") for a projected maintained in the reorder database to enable the
production target of 100,000 ounces of gold per automatic generation of purchase order. However in
annum with a ten (10) year estimated life of the the case of non-stock or “direct” items purchases,
Mine [7]. Soon after this announcement of the end users/internal customers are required to
expression of interest, the construction works for the place their request by filling out the required
processing plant and the related infrastructure were information in the online requisition in pronto
initiated and completed in January 2011. However, a allowing the purchasing officers or buyers to be able
full swing of production was in April 2011 with an convert the requisition into Quotation Requested
end of year 2011 production of 90,026 ounces (QR)/Request for Quotation (RFQ) and further be
achieved [7]. able to convert them into purchase order.
Its mining operations consist of a chain of
shallow oxide pits along the Salman trend plus the 2. Acquisition Management
Anwia deposit 8km west of the plant. However, The Mine SCM acquisition management
depending on the type of ore, processing start from processes starts with the purchasing officers or
1.6 mtpa to 2.1 mtpa plant with the extraction of the buyers receiving the internal customer needs or
gold through a standard gravity-CIL process. The demands in the form of reorder reports or placement
processing plant is located west of the Salman of online requisitions by the end users/internal
Central pits and is connected to the national power customers through the ERP/Pronto system, and
grid via a substation [7]. sending these needs in the form of tenders to
To improve and sustain the Mine‟s selected number of vendors in the form of Request
operations by increasing Mine life and/or for Quote (RFQ). Once the RFQ‟s have been sent
throughput, exploration works is ongoing to out to these selected vendors, and quotations
discover additional oxide resources both along the received from them, the quotations are carefully
Salman trend and the immediate area. In addition, evaluated/ analyzed based on some set purchasing
an evaluation is currently underway to identify the criteria such as lead-time, price, quality etc. At the
end of the analysis, purchase order (s) is/are created

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online through the ERP/Pronto system for the best area and between the business partners. This critical
vendor (s). The purchase order (s) is/are approved activity is undertaken to ensure the internal
by the Supply Chain Manager or a more superior customer‟s satisfactions are always met and even
person such as Commercial Manager & General exceeded. Metrics and measures such as information
Manager depending on the face value of the on how often vendors keep to their promises on
purchase order, or by an end user department if the deliveries, information on the percent of orders
purchase is non-stock/ direct purchase. Once the filled on time from the warehouse to the internal
purchase order (s) has been approved, it is sent customers, information on how often deliveries
electronically to the successful vendor (s) to either made by vendors are made full truckload and full
supply the items or render the service. pallets of individual products, and information on
how often products delivered by vendors meet the
3. Logistics Management quality standard as quoted, etc. are collected from
The logistics operations major goal is to Pronto and critically analyzed and where there is a
move goods and its associated information from shortfall or where applicable, an improvement
vendors to customers through the supply chain strategy is adapted to fill the gaps.
network. However, this process is required to keep
moving until and unless the goods get to the final II. RESEARCH OBJECTIVES
destination (i.e. at the right place and at the right The paper‟s aims and objectives are to
time). In the Mine SCM however, this process is investigate the role ICT has played towards the
wholly the duty of the officer-in-charge of logistics improvement of the mining business performance
and event management/expediting supported by through an effective SCM in the Mining Industry
some other supply chain staffs. To enable a smooth with emphasis on a specific Mine as a case study.
flow of information between the partners within the More purposely, the paper looks into what role ICT
supply chain network, the Mine has signed several has played to help improve SCM specifically, and
long-term contracts with different number of freight mining business performance as a whole and how it
forwarders such as ocean-freight, airfreight, DHL, at will help sustain the standards that have been
high volume purchased countries, with in-country achieved in the SCM in the Mining Industry.
clearing agents and transporters. The logistics and Because the chosen case study organization
event management/expediting officer monitors all operates in a non-customer competitive and
purchase orders/ shipments by tracking to find out resources and financial acquisition competitive
the status or progress of all purchase orders/ arena, the direction of the study is channeled
shipments by login onto the freight forwarders towards the reduction of the Mine operational cost
network system (but the freight forwarders do not performance and the improvement of the SCM
have access to the Mine’s ERP network) and quickly operations through the use of ICT towards the
informing the Supply Chain Manager of any change achievement of the Mine‟s growth and
in event that may have happened. These events sustainability.
generally relates to late arrival or dispatch of
purchase orders/consignments at pre-specified III. LITERATURE REVIEW
locations. These changes in events are quickly sent A. Introduction
across to the appropriate departments by either This section of the paper reviews the
Supply Chain Manager or directly by the logistics relevant literature on SCM and ICT in relation to the
and event management/expediting officer to enable general context within which they are applied. It
them put in place an appropriate plan to also reviews literature on the relationship between
rescue/sustain operations while a continuous SCM and ICT. It further looks at reviewing
monitoring of the progress is done until the delay is literature on how ICT has helped improved and
fixed or the consignment finally arrives. This sustain SCM standards in the Mining Industry. This
process ends when the goods are received, inspected will clearly establish the current state of the
and stored in the warehouse or delivered to internal knowledge in the subject, it limitations and how this
customers satisfactorily. research fit into the general industrial
context.Analyzing the literature is aimed at making
4.Regular Assessment of Supply Chain available a great deal of information to clearly point
Performance out to the fact that, there is the strong need for ICT
Regular assessments of the Mine SCM adaption and implementation within the SCM
performance is done using the information that are network for continuous improvement and
captured in the ERP/Pronto system on the various sustainable SCM standards on a more generic front.
processes for the purpose of reporting and
identifying shortfalls in the processes to look at B. General Concepts
ways to improve. The ERP/Pronto system enables The conventional approach to managing
the possibility of tracking the various process supply chains (SC) has evolved considerably over
transactions that takes place within each functional the last decade. Shavazi et al. [8] argued that, “face-

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to-face management, manual tracking systems, 1. Supply Chain Management (SCM) Concept
paper-dominated order processing systems, and Sweeney [1]argued that, many definitions
wired communication links were the primary exist for SCM. As a matter of fact, many authors
management tools available to logistics managers”. have attempted to define Supply Chain Management
With the current new face of SC, all these (SCM) in their various capacities, yet none have so
management tools have turned out to become far been able to offer a more comprehensive
obsolete [9].This has come into play as a result of definition. Shavazi et al. [8] offered a single and
the massive increasingly growth and the complex encompassing definition by stating that, SCM is a
nature of the SC network. This complex massive systematic, strategically synchronized conventional
growth has surfaced according to Shavazi et al. organization function within a single business and
[8]because of the high global difference in cost of across the borders of businesses within the SC, to
labor pushing businesses to source for raw materials enhance the continual concert of the individual
and services from cheaper labor nations to help partners and the entire company. Campbell &
control cost of production and stay competitive in Wilson [13] defined SCM “as a set of two or more
the market. Furthermore, they argued that, current connected business relationships in which exchange
customer taste has become increasingly complex in one relationship is contingent of non-exchange in
with a high demands rate for customized products another”. Biniazi et al.[10]argued that, supply chain
that better suit their needs.This high resultant is formed when two or more organizations are
increase in product variation has made forecasting integrated though individual businesses that might
of demand a very intricate task for businesses to be officially separated by current issues such as
manage and predict both volumes and option mix as materials, information and financial flows but
against a distinct demand pattern. related to each other with the main focus on
promoting entire SC sustainable growth.
This has brought about the increase in the
supply base and cost of coordination. Organizations 2.Information and Communication Technology
are therefore required to increase their competitive (ICT) Concepts
strength to help them standardize and improve their Information and Communication
internal processes to enable them produce goods and Technology (ICT) as cited by Asabere et al. [5] is an
services with superior quality, shorter lead time, umbrella term that includes anycommunication
increasing service level and at reduced minimum device or application, as well as the various services
possible cost [10][11]. However, Gek et al. [12] and applications associated with them, which
added that, though there is the need for businesses to enables businesses to gather, store, access, and
optimize their internal processes, there is also the analyze information used in taking strategic
strong need for them to coordinate with each other‟s business decisions and also enables communication
businesses within the supply chain network. With within the business functions and between the
this complex network of suppliers, factories, business partners.
warehouses, distribution centers and retailers, the To a greater extent, all sectors see the
key SCM success of any SCM strongly relies on factors of supply chain as drivers for ICT
how sound the entire supply chain network system investment. Indeed, there is the strong need for
is being managed [8]. increased organizational efficiency, improved
The high rate of geographically located communications within and among partners and
businesses within the SC network has made reduced paperwork, and responding to customer and
businesses view information as the most critical supplier needs. The strongest drivers among them
tools for SC to flourish. Shaikh et al.[11] appear to be meeting customer needs and the need
strengthens his argument by also mentioning that, for better communications within and among
the most critical aspect in the management and partners [8]. This means that, there is a strong need
maintenance of the SCM network is the timely to integrate information flows across the network
availability of relevant information. Sweeney [1] partners within the value-chain. This has called for
mentioned that, there is a collaborative sharing of common data and transaction standards within the
information and processes between the various value-chain. Such initiatives are clearly of great
Supply Chain (SC) partners by using an ICT system importance to support effective exploitation of
such as Enterprise Resources Planning (ERP). business-to-business e-commerce.
Indeed, ICT has become the key enabler in the In the Mining Industry, since the industry
managementof the current geographically located deals with high value stock consignments/capital
supply chains to achieve stronger supply chain goods, the effects of insufficient, inadequate or
capabilities and sustainable business inaccurate flow of data and information (Silos‟ of
competitiveness [1]. information)across the boundaries can be profound.
It is necessary to interface within and between the
partners of the supply chain to ensure optimal
exchange of information across the boundaries.

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3. The Relationship Between ICT & SCM further result in an overall performance increase of
Various researchers have attempted looking the Supply Chain Operations.
into the relationship between ICT and SCM. The
relationship between ICT and SCM is indeed of D. How has ICT Helped to Improve SCM?
much interest to many scholars lately because of the The use of ICT has become increasingly
immense importance put forth in the business arena. prevalent. Indeed the greatest effect of ICT on
The extensive adoption of supply chain concept businesses is the huge increase in access to services
among many businesses partners located in different and information causing better and often cheaper
geographical locations has lately stressed on the communications within and between the supply
increasingly importance of the use of ICT in SCM chain partners. The presence of ICT in the SCM
operation to help offer greater global service to operations has given rise to a new face of business
enhance customer needs [14]. Asabere et al. [5] operations. The use of ICT in the SCM has indeed
argued that, ICT has helped strengthen the linkage brought about greater coordinated efforts in business
between SCM partners and offered an effective way processes among supply chain partners. This has
of managing time, cost and equality of the services subsequently brought about an improved buyer-
delivery. Shavazi et al. [8] also argued that, ICT has supplier relation as a result of process changes
come to support the collaboration and coordination leading to reduced variability and uncertainty in
effect of the supply chains activities through information possessed by both parties. Fasanghari,
information sharing. Information sharing is indeed et al. [3] argued that, the adoption of ICT in SCM
the greatest key element towards the enhancement has helped “improve supply chain agility, reduce
of supply chain operations. Asabere et al. [5] cycle time, achieve higher efficiency and deliver
pointed out that, the development and the presence products to customers in a timely manner”. ICT in
of ICT have immensely affected SCM and its the SCM has really made information flow across
processes in many ways over the last decade. the length and breadth of the chain in a time-
Indeed, ICT has become an imperative tool for the compression manner (quicker). ICT has also made
achievement of competitive gain and this SCM operations more efficient and reliable and
achievement is increasingly dependent on the serves as every organizational key operations
capability of businesses to create customer‟s enabler. Shavazi et al. [8] argued that, the close
valuethrough the effective use of ICT. relationship of the two concepts, SCM and ICT
sometimes makes it difficult to assess which one
C. What is the Role of ICT in SCM? contributes to the benefits of the other.
Sweeney [1] argued that, most business
activities can be described in terms of five functions E. What can be Done to Improve and Sustain
including buy, make, store, move and sell, and this Standards of SCM Through ICT?
is referred to as “micro” or internal supply chain, Biniazi et al. [10] argued that, “Supply
yet, these functions have been managed traditionally Chain design is based on the strategic factors and
and over the years in isolation (cross-purpose). customer attention and needs to design the supply
“Supply Chain Management means thinking beyond chain, so that it covers the range of available
the established boundaries, strengthening the products, services, new products or customers
linkages between the functions, and finding ways section, based on the knowledge of the final product
for them to pull together” [1]. Again, Sweeney [1] in the supply chain”. This clearly depicts the fact
mentioned that, maximizing the SCM level of that every organizations supply chain is it core
effectiveness and efficiency of the flows of material, operational driver, and its design is made possible
money, and information along the full chain should by putting together a number of independent
be administered in an integrated and holistic systems. Sweeney [30] pointed out that, to improve
approach, with the key aim of improving the overall SCM there is the strong need to integrate supply
service and cost objectives. This is indeed the key chain activities and information across the length
role that is being played by ICT in the SCM. ICT and breadth of the chain as several supply chain
when employed into the SCM operations closes the non-value added activities arise as a result of the
gap or acts as an interface between the various presence of fragmented supply chain configurations.
processes within and between the SCM systems and There is this saying that, „the whole is greater than
therefore according to Sweeney [1], ICT smoothens the sum of the various parts‟. This is an unarguable
the flows of raw materials, money, and information fact beyond all reasonable doubts. An integrated
from source through the various phases of system generates significant improvements as it
operations in the chain to the final user. Biniazi et adapts to the „total systems‟ thinking approach and
al.[10]argued that, the management of information tends to become a more robust system. Sweeney
and appropriate synchronization between the [30] argued that, system deficiencies are mostly
partners will lead to an ever-increasing influence on caused by poorly designed interfacing among
the speed, accuracy and quality etc. which will subsystems rather than any inbuilt subsystem
weaknesses. It is obvious that, improving and

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sustaining SCM standards strongly requires the need B. Research Design
for the improvement of the interfacing between the Trochim [18] argued that, “research design
various SCM systems to enable the free flow of provides the glue that holds the research project
information across and along the chain which serves together”. It is therefore obvious that, without an
as the key enabler to SCM. Realizing this dream appropriate research design in a research, that
requires the need to make present ICT in the SCM. research will be disintegrated creating lack of
Indeed, ICT has all it takes to help close this gap by correlation among the individual sections.
offering closely interface subsystems to deliver The authors have made this paper come
updated data and information across and long the into reality through the use of case study. To enable
supply chain, making the process more efficient and them arrive at „method triangulation‟ [15], they
more effective to operate [10]. Sweeney [31] argued employed a variety of methods and tools in the
that, “effective ICT is a key success factor”. To research design which includes both quantitative
improve and sustain SCM standards using ICT, ICT and qualitative techniques. As pointed out by White
implementation in the SCM ought not to be done in [15], “a characteristic feature of case studies is that
isolation, instead be part of an integrated approach they employ varieties of different
to total supply chain design andmanagement[31]. It techniques”.Saunders et al.[16] also argued that, a
should also be noted that, users and training are also case study is a research strategy which involves an
essential part of the successful improvement and empirical study of a specific situation trend within
sustainability of the SCM operations through ICT. its real life perspective via several sources of data.
Indeed, it could be argued that, researching a single
III.RESEARCH METHODOLOGY topic via a variety of diverse methods is highly
The approach adopted by researchers to complementary, as the outcome of the research turns
collect and analyze data with regards to the subject to offer a more comprehensive understanding of the
matter is termed the research methodology. White problem under study. The quantitative research was
[15] argued that, research methodology (research administered through the e-mail addresses of the
„onion‟ as put bySaunders et al., [16]) is the rational individual senior staffs of the Mine who were
upon which the research is founded, whereas the mainly the targeted group for the questionnaire. The
approach/technique utilized to collect data and management team members of the Mine, basically
information is identified as the method. the heads of departments were interviewed to carry
This main aim of this section of the paper out the qualitative research. Some of the dynamics
is for the authors to present their approach adopted that were considered in the design to appreciate the
in the investigation of the research subject. relationship and role of ICT in the Mining
The process of investigation in this paper Industrywere included in the survey-based
includes; the methodology adopted, the research questionnaire for the Mine senior staffs and the in-
design, the data collection methods, the reasons for depth questionnaire for the management
the adoption of a hybrid of questionnaire and semi- interviewees. The following were considered and
structured interviews as against other methods, and discussed in detailin the interviews and survey
data analysis for the study. The research design questionnaire design.
section of the paper comprises of quantitative
research, qualitative research, validity& reliability 1. Quantitative Research
of the research and ethics and confidentiality. Quantitative research techniques as argued
by White [15] are sometime referred to as „scientific
A. Research Methodology Adopted methods‟ mainly based on the collection of facts and
The authors followed the case study observable facts, and used to describe, explain,
methodology in an attempt to answer the research inferlaws and ascertain a correlation. The
questions [17]. According to White [15], a case quantitative research was administered through the
study is an in-depth study of a distinct circumstance e-mail addresses of the individualsenior staffs of the
such as an organization. In fact, it is a detailed Mine who are mainly the targeted group for the
investigation from all sides of a situation. The questionnairein the form of survey using a self-
researchers chose this methodology as a result of administered structured questionnaire.
their perceived in-depth research on the topic in the The selection of the sample population
chosen organization which is best suited. The with the most information regarding the research
application of the investigative study has three main area is a common slant often used in business
intents, namely: to seek comprehensive information research[19]. This is known as purposive sampling
about the role of ICT plays in the SCM in the approach. Simply put, this technique aims at the
Mining Industry, to investigate how ICT has helped most knowledgeable group of people – the senior
to improve SCM in the Mining Industry and to seek officers. The two main reasons for focusing on these
what can be done to improve and sustain standards groups of people are: firstly, because the group will
of SCM through ICT in the Mining Industry. understand strongly the relationship and role that
ICT plays in the Mining Industry, hence can make

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more reasonable contributions tovalidate the data The questionnaire was designed to provide
collected, secondly, it is imperative for the authors both categories (yes/no) answers and Likert scale (5
to capture their views to better understand the point) questions for the purposes of the analysis.
research topic. Despite the persistent e-mails and follow-up phone
calls, a total of thirty-six (36) valid responses were
1.1 Survey Questionnaire Design collected and used for further analysis. This
The paper‟s survey questionnaire is produced a return response rate of 72 per cent which
structured into four (4) sections. The first section is considered adequate for this research.
has questions that are related to the respondents‟ Descriptive statistics according to White [15]was
general information. The remaining three (3) used to evaluate and analyze the data and
sections are assigned each to the three research information collected from the quantitative research,
questions. Averagely, each section contains ten (8) making the data more visible and most suitable for
questions with a combined multiple-choice, close- onward interpretations.
ended, open-ended and a rating question with sub- According to Trochim [18], descriptive
section for further comments. statistics is used to describe „what is or what data
Under section one (1) of the questionnaire, shows‟. Given the small sample size, it was not most
thus, the general respondents information section, suitable to proceed with inferential statistics.
the questionnaire has questions such as, the Inferential statistics is however a way of getting to a
employment status of the respondents, as there was conclusion of a study by going beyond the direct
a high possibility of the various respondents having data in an attempt to infer from the test data about
different employment status. The full job titles and what the population might assume [18].
departments they work for were asked to enable an
analysis to be made as to whether the type of the 1.3 Pilot Study
departments the respondents work for has some Six (6) respondents were used to conduct a
amount of influence on their response to the pilot test on the questionnaire before getting to the
questionnaire. How long they have worked with targeted population. This provided an insight to
their current Mine and how much experience they whether or not the questionnaire will be easy to
do have working with other Mines, rating the follow by the respondents. As argued by White [15],
duration of the respondent such as less than 1year, the quality of any questionnaire is dependent on the
1-5years, 5-10years, 10-15years and above 15years. quality of the questions provided in the
Under the second section of the questionnaire. The pilot study helped ascertain any
questionnaire, this section had questions that attempt potential future problematic areas and deficiencies
to gather information to help answer the question in the questionnaire, making it possible to make the
what role does ICT plays in SCM in the Mining necessary further adjustments to the questionnaire
Industry. prior to the actual implementation of the
Section three (3) of the questionnaire had questionnaire during the full study [20]. White [15]
all questions related to the research question in an argued that good and easy going questions will keep
attempt to gather information on how ICT has the respondents focused and will promote accurate
helped to improve SCM in the Mining Industry? responses.
The last section, section four (4) of the questionnaire
also had all it questions moving in the direction of 2. Qualitative Research
attempting to answer the last research question, This is a “staple form of research” [15] and
what can be done to improve and maintain standards originated from the interpretative tradition in the
of SCM through ICT in the Mining Industry? social sciences [21]. This method uses descriptive,
A copy of the survey questionnaire can be found in non-numerical form of collecting and analyzing data
Appendix F. [15] and offers potentially great means of
investigating the subjectivity and complexity of the
1.2 Primary Quantitative Data Collection subject matter [21][22].A qualitative research
The survey monkey‟s website was used attempts to investigate a central research question
right from the scratch which made it easy to carry instead of proving or disproving a predetermined
out, administer and explore the research for smooth thought [21]. Wainwright [23] argued that, the
understanding and the design of the questionnaire. qualitative research method attempts to create an in-
The target population for the quantitative data depth perception of the experiences of the
collection was the fifty (50) junior and middle participants and the significances among their
senior officers of the Mine. The quantitative data explanations of a specific activity, process or
collected from the respondents were done through occurrence. Rubin and Rubin [24] argued that,
the individual respondents e-mail addresses and qualitative research is all about making out what
completed questionnaires returned to the authors outcomes mean, how people adjust to situations and
through an email address provided on the how they see what has occurred to them and around
questionnaire. them. Over the last decade or so, there has been that

647 | P a g e

evolvement of a greater number of qualitative appropriate and popular by many researchers
methods with some of the excellent ones including conducting semi-structured or in-depth interviews
“interviews, observation and the use of diaries [15]. and hence, the authors deemed it fit to adopt this
This paper used interviews as the qualitative technique to solicit the views of their targeted
research approach with the Mine‟s management groups during their interview. The authors adapted a
team to find out what is at stake regarding the sample size of 6 for the interview to enable them
relationship and role of ICT in the Mining Industry. have some reassurance as to a reliable sense of
“thematic exhaustion” within the data set [26].
2.1 Interview Questionnaire Design
The interview questionnaire was designed 2.3 Pilot Study
with only open-ended questions with more than one Two (2) interviewees were interviewed to
question on the same topic to check and correlate pilot test the semi-structured interview questions to
the validity of the response. To enable the authors to determine the typical time required for each
easily and properly compare and contrast the interviewee and was incorporated back into the
opinions of both the non-management and study to devise the questions. At the end of the pilot
management staffs, similar questions to that of the test, it was observed that certain questions were too
survey questionnaire were asked but in different narrow whereas others were ambiguous making the
approaches. There were certain questions that were administering of the interview very lengthy. Those
pulled out from the survey questionnaire and added narrow questions were expanded a little and the
to the management interview questionnaire but ambiguous questions rephrased and re-piloted on
unfortunately these questions were not put under another interviewee. The final questions were clear
sections as in the case of the survey questionnaire. enough and the time taken to administer thereafter
The question as to what are the interviewee‟s noted. White [15] argued that, a pilot study makes
current roles with the „Mine‟ and the length of stay sure the questions are clear to understand and aids
on the same role with the „Mine‟ were the first the removal of any vagueness, as well as aids in
questions on the interview questionnaire. This was timing the interview. In a nutshell, this assisted the
followed by a question on how the interviewees will design and redesign of the questionnaire for the
describe the presence of ICT in their Mine‟s SCM. interviews.
Next was the question, what role the interviewees
think ICT plays in their Mine SCM. The C. Validity and Reliability of the Research
question,has the infusion of ICT into the Mine SCM Validity is all about whether the result of a
brought about some form of improvement to the research are “really about what they appear to be
SCM was asked followed by several series of about”, whereas, reliability is basically the degree to
questions such as, is ICT really an imperative tool to which the technique for collecting the data or
the Mine SCM operations and why, how has ICT analysis of the data will offer reliable results [27].
helped to improve the Mine SCM and many, many However, White [15] argued that, “validity is
more. concerned with the idea that the research design
All responses received from the interviews fully addresses the research questions and
conducted can be found in Appendix A-E. objectives” that the authors look at answering and
achieving, whereas “reliability is about consistency
2.2 Primary Qualitative Data Collection of the research, and whether other authors could
White [15] argued that, interviews are employ the same research design to arrive at similar
considered more suitable methods to use when a results, though the explanation and conclusion might
case study research strategy is employed. The absolutely be different from the previous author‟s
interview focused on the management team point of view.
members, i.e. heads of department of the Mine who The authors have attempted to ensure
are strongly believed to be able to furnish the validity of the research with a detailed literature
authors with further insights regarding the “what, review and several pilots testing of the questionnaire
how and why” questions [16]. Furthermore, White and the interview questions guaranteeing the
[15]suggested that, open-ended interviews questions targeted groups comprehend and appropriately
should be employed to allow for qualitative analysis understand the questions [28][29]. Additionally, the
as part of the case study strategy. The paper authors on various occasions have had series of
interview examined the views of the targeted discussions with the targeted groups (senior
population on their perceived thoughts on the managers, managers and supervisors of the Mine),
relationship and role of ICT in the Mine SCM all in the name of communicating deeply with them
system in practice. A detailed literature review was on the essence of the research. The continuous,
conducted prior to the design of the content of the devise approach and persistent education of the
questionnaire to enhance the reliability and validity purpose of the research to the targeted group
of the data. As argued by Sturges & Hanrahan [25], resulted in the expression of their willingness to
the face-to-face interview is considered most offer the authors with the needed data for both the

648 | P a g e

questionnaire and the interview. Yet, for internal sharing their views but they were on their own in
improvement of both the questionnaire and the relation to the Mining Industry in general, based on
interview to be achieved, the authors requested the their experiences on the ICT and Supply Chain
participants of the pilot test to give considerable operations of the Mine.
feedback. Indeed, the feedback received was
extremely helpful as it assisted in identifying vague E. Description of the Empirical Research Study
and complex questions, identifying the durations The authors used approximately two (2) weeks to
used in answering the questionnaire and interview complete research tasks involved and receive
questions to make out whether the durations are responses ofstaff for the empirical part (the survey
reasonable or whatever, eliminate or revamp vague and the interview) of the paper. Though the survey
questions that were not answered or not answered questionnaire could have taken 20-30minutes to get
properly [29].For the fact that one of the author‟s completed by each respondent, the questionnaire
work in one of the mining companies in Ghana and was still made available to the respondents for a
that he is in close relationship with the majority of period of two (2) weeks for the reason of
the survey respondents and interviewees, and that convenience and accurate answering of the survey
the respondents have already expressed their questions. After this length of time, 36 usable and
greatest deserve to respond to both the questionnaire fully completed responses were collected from the
and the interview, makes it obvious that the research respondents. The management interview
result can be considered authentic and hence can be participation was excellent right from the beginning
generalized to operating businesses in the same to the end, recording a hundred percent turn-out
industry. This brings us to the conclusion that, the from the interviewees within two (2) days.
study can be replicated under a similar methodology
with no difficulties, therefore it is considered IV.ANALYSIS AND RESULTS OF THE
reliable. RESEARCH FINDINGS
A. Questionnaire Response
D. Ethics and Confidentiality of the Research The responses to the questionnaires we
The respondents of the survey were the received after distribution are depicted below. We
main users of the company‟s senior staff‟s intranet used Microsoft Excel to create charts and tables to
section; therefore the responses posted cannot be correspond to the received questionnaire responses.
viewed by any other groups of people outside this This can be verified from figures 1 to 19 and table
group. There was also a brief pre-notification 1-10. We also adopted the Likert Scale Formula:
message to the targeted respondents to inform them
of the purpose of the study and assured respondents Mean 
N
that their responses or information provided will be
treated strictly confidential and shall only be used
n
in the 1-5 scale/opinion questions, in order to
for the intended purpose. Additionally, a participant
achieve accurate result of the responses. In our table
information sheet was sent to respondents to be read
results for the scale/opinion questions, we also used
and understand, and a model consent form to be
SA to denote Strongly Agree, A to denote Agree,
read, understood, signed and returned by the
NL to denote Neutral, D to denote Disagree and SD
participant to the author/ researcher before the
to denote Strongly Agree.
commencement of the survey or interview.
Following that was an introductory message
clearing stating that, the response is only and only 1. General Respondent Information
for the purpose intended. It is important to “only  Responses to Question 1.1 depicted below
involve people with their consent or knowledge” in figure 1, showed that all of the
[15] and also inform the targeted respondents respondents (100%) were contract staff of
properly about the research so as to make a more- the Mine.
informed decision as to whether to participate or
otherwise. Also during the research, the respondents
should be given the right to redraw and remove their
consent if they so wish.

The management team of the Mine
interviewees were also assured of the fact that, their
ideas and opinions shared will be exclusively use for
the intended purpose. For that matter, their
personalities were not completely disclosed in the
paper but only their roles within the Mine were
used. The respondent were made to know that, they
were not in any way representing their Mine in

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Question 1.1: Current Employment Type of Question 1.4: Designated Department of
Respondents? Respondents?
40 12
12
30 10 8
8 6
Number 20 6 4
4 2 2 2
10 0
2
0 0
Contract Perman
Other
Staff ent Staff
Number 36 0 0
Staff Category

Fig-1: Responses to Question 1.1
Number
 Responses to Question 1.2 depicted below
in figure 2, showed that 28 (78%) of the
respondents were mostly males and the
remaining 8 respondents (22%) were
females.
respondents had worked in the Mine for a
Question 1.2: Gender of Respondents? duration of 1-5 years and the remaining 4
respondents (11%) had worked in the Mine
30 for a duration of 5-10 years.
25
20 Question 1.5: Duration of Working for the
15 Company?
Number 10
Number
5
0 32
Male Female Other
Number 28 8 0 4
0 0 0
Gender
Less 1-5 5-10 10-15 More
Fig-2: Responses to Question 1.2 than 1 years years years than 15
year years
respondents work in the Commercial Fig-4: Responses to Question 1.5
Department, 4 respondents (11%) work in
the Social Responsibility Department, 2  Responses to Question 1.6 depicted in
respondents of three different sets (6%) figure 5, showed that 24 (67%) of the
work in the Occupational Health, respondents had worked in the Mining
Environment and Exploration Departments. Industry for a duration of 1-5 years and the
8 (22%) & 6 (16%) respondents work in remaining 12 respondents (33%) had
Process and Mining Departments worked in the Mine industry for a duration
respectively. Wedidn‟t receive any of 5-10 years.
responses (0%) from the Security
Department.

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Question 1.6: Duration of Working for the Table-2: Responses to Question 2.2

Mining Industry?
SA A NL D SD
Number Scale (s) 1 2 3 4 5
Frequency
24 24 12 0 0 0
(n) 36
12 N = (n*s) 24 24 0 0 0 48
0 0 0 Mean 1.333333

 Responses to Question 2.3 (The Presence
Less than 1 yearyears years More than 15 years
1-5 5-10 10-15 years of ICT in Your Mine SCM Will Allow
Fig-5: Responses to Question 1.6 Decisions Based on Total Supply Chain
Information?) depicted below in table 3,
2. What is the Role of ICT in SCM in the Mining showed that 28 (78%) of the respondents
Industry? “Strongly Agree” and the remaining 4
 Responses to Question 2.1 (The Presence respondents (11%) “Agree” to Question
of ICT in Your Mine SCM Will Provide 2.3. From table 3, further applying the
Information and Material Availability and Likert Scale Mean Formula to the
Visibility?) depicted below in Table 1, responses of Question 2.3, depicted the
showed that 32 (89%) of the respondents result shown below:
“Strongly Agree” and the remaining 4
(11%) respondents “Agree” to Question
2.1. From table 1, further applying the
Mean 
 N  44  1.22
Likert Scale Mean Formula to the
responses of Question 2.1, depicted the  n 36
result shown below:
 N  40  1.11
This result depicts that most of the responses to
Mean  Question 2.3 are aligned to scale 1 (“Strongly
 n 36 Agree”).
This result depicts that most of the responses to Table-3: Responses to Question 2.3
Question 2.1 are aligned to scale 1 (“Strongly
Agree”). SA A NL D SD 
Table-1: Responses to Question 2.1 Scale (s) 1 2 3 4 5
SA A NL D SD  Frequency
(n)
28 8 0 0 0
36
Scale (s) 1 2 3 4 5 N = (n*s) 28 16 0 0 0 44
Frequency
Mean 1.222222
(n) 32 4 0 0
0 36
N = (n*s) 32 8 0 0
0 40
 Responses to Question 2.4 (The Presence
Mean 1.111111 of ICT in Your Mine SCM Will Enable,
 Responses to Question 2.2(The Presence of Strengthen and Smoothen Collaboration
ICT in Your Mine SCM Will Enable a with Supply Chain Partners?) depicted
Single Point of Contact for Data?) depicted below in table 4, showed that 28 (78%) of
below in table 2, showed that 24 (67%) of the respondents “Strongly Agree” the
the respondents “Strongly Agree” and the remaining 4 respondents (11%) “Agree” to
remaining 12 respondents (33%) “Agree” Question 2.4. From table 4, further
to Question 2.2. From table 2, applying the Likert Scale Mean Formula to
furtherapplying the Likert Scale Mean the responses of Question 2.4, depicted the
Formula to the responses of Question 2.2, result shown below:

depicted the result shown below:

N 44
N 48 Mean    1.22
Mean 


n 36
 1.33
 n 36
This result depicts that most of the responses to Question 2.3 are aligned to scale 1 (“Strongly
Question 2.2 are aligned to scale 1 (“Strongly Agree”).
Agree”).

651 | P a g e

Table-4: Responses to Question 2.4 in figure 8, showed that all 36 respondents
SA A NL D SD  (100%) affirmed to the fact that the
presence of ICT in the Mine has helped in
Scale (s) 1 2 3 4 5 developing high valued chain
Frequency relationships/partnerships.
28 8 0 0 0
(n) 36
N = (n*s) 28 16 0 0 0 44
Mean 1.222222 Question 2.7: The Presence of ICT in Your
Mine SCM Has Helped in Developing High No
 Responses to Question 2.5 depicted below Valued Supply Chain 0%
in figure 6, showed that all 36 respondents Relationships/Partnerships?
(100%) affirmed tothe fact that ICT in the
Mine has helped to improved demand
response time.

Question 2.5: ICT in Your Mine SCM Has
Helped Improve Demand Response Time? Yes
100%
0%

Yes Fig-8: Responses to Question 2.7
No
100%  Responses to Question 2.8 depicted below
in figure 9, showed that all 36 respondents
(100%) affirmed to the fact that the
presence of ICT in the Mine has helped to
attain global standards and access to the
world market.
Question 2.8: The Presence of ICT in Your
 Responses to Question 2.6 depicted below Mine SCM Has Helped to Attain Global
in figure 7, showed that all 36 respondents Standards and Access to the World Market?
No
(100%) affirmed to the fact that the 0%
presence of ICT in the Mine has helped
streamline logistic activities across the
supply chain leading to cost reduction and
improved efficiency.

Yes
Question 2.6: The Presence of ICT in Your 100%
Mine SCM Has Helped Streamlining Logistic
Activities Across the Supply Chain Leading to
Cost Reduction and Improved Efficiency?
No
0% Fig-9: Responses to Question 2.7

3. How Has ICT Helped To Improve SCM In
The Mining Industry?
Yes  Responses to Question 3.1(The Presence of
100% ICT in Your Mine SCM has Enabled
Greater Material Availability and Visibility
Which has Immensely Improved Materials
and Maintenance Planning Processes With
Many Significant Cost Reduction and
Fig-7: Responses to Question 2.6 Service Improvements?) depicted below in
table 5, showed that 28 (78%) of the
respondents “Strongly Agree”, 4 (11%)

652 | P a g e

“Agree” and the remaining 4 (11%) were
“Neutral” to Question 3.1. From table 5, Question 3.3: Has ICT Helped to Improve Your
further applying the Likert Scale Mean Mine SCM by Helping Gain Instant Updates on
Formula to the responses of Question 3.1, Orders Placed With Vendors Which Helps in
depicted the result shown below: Production and Maintenance Planning?

Mean 
 N  48  1.33 0% Yes No
 n 36
100%
Agree”).

Table-5: Responses to Question 3.1
SA A NL D SD  Fig-11: Responses to Question 3.3
Scale (s) 1 2 3 4 5
 Responses to Question 3.4 (The Ability to
Frequency
28 4 4 0 0 Notify Vendors of Changes in
(n) 36
Configurations in Products That are
N = (n*s) 28 8 12 0 0 48
Produced to Order has Been Made
Mean 1.333333 Possible With the Presence of ICT in Your
Mine SCM Leading to an Improved SCM?)
 Responses to Question 3.2 depicted below depicted below in table 6, showed that 20
in figure 10, showed that all 36 respondents (56%) of the respondents “Strongly Agree”,
(100%) affirmed to the fact that the and the remaining 16 (34%) “Agree” to
presence of ICT in the Mine has helped Question 3.4. From table 6, further
improve the Mine Supply Chain Operations applying the Likert Scale Mean Formula to
by enabling a quick approach to contacting the responses of Question 3.4, depicted the
vendors on issues pertaining to customer result shown below:
 N  52  1.44
service problems such as late deliveries and
changes in schedule.
Mean 
Question 3.2: The Presence of ICT in Your  n 36
Mine SCM has Helped Improve Your Mine This result depicts that most of the responses to
Supply Chain Operations by Enabling a Quick Question 3.4 are aligned to scale 1 (“Strongly
Approach to Contacting Vendors on Issues Agree”).
Pertaining to Customer Service Problems Such
as Late Deliveries and Changes in Scheduled? Table-6: Responses to Question 3.4
0% SA A NL D SD 
Scale (s) 1 2 3 4 5
Yes Frequency
20 16 0 0 0
(n) 36
100% No N = (n*s) 20 32 0 0 0 52
Mean 1.444444

Fig-10: Responses to Question 3.2  Responses to Question 3.5 depicted below
(100%) affirmed to the fact that with the
presence of ICT in the Mine SCM, the
ability to track ordered spares and raw
(100%) affirmed to the fact that ICT in the
materials on a continuous basis by the
Mine has improved the Mine Supply Chain
Mine‟s Supply Chain has been made
Management (SCM) by helping gain
possible.
instant updates on orders placed with
vendors which helps in production and
maintenance planning.

653 | P a g e

Question 3.5: The Ability to Track Ordered Question 3.7: The Ability to Schedule Pickups
Spares and Raw Materials on a Continuous and Deliveries has Been Made Possible and
Basis by the Mine‟s Supply Chain has Been Even Improved With the Infusion of ICT Into
Made Possible With the Presence of ICT in the Your Mine SCM?
Mine SCM?
No No
0% 0%

Yes
100% Yes
100%

in figure 13, showed that all 36 respondents Fig-14: Responses to Question 3.7
(100%) affirmed to the fact that the
presence of ICT in the Mine SCM has  Responses to Question 3.8 depicted below
created the ability to directly communicate in figure 15, showed that 32 respondents
with vendors and internal customers (89%) affirmed to the fact that the presence
regarding supply issues on a 7-day/24 hour of ICT in the Mine SCM has enabled the
basis without being physically present. SCM employees to become more
responsive to internal customer service
problems and reduce service costs whereas
Question 3.6: The Presence of ICT in Your 4 respondents (11%) said otherwise.
Mine SCM Has Created the Ability to Directly
Communicate With Vendors and Internal
Customers Regarding Supply Issues on a 7- Question 3.8: The Presence of ICT in Your
Day/24-Hour Basis Without Being Physically Mine SCM Has Enabled the SCM Employees to
Present? Become More Responsive (Reduce Response
No
0% Time) to Internal Customer Service Problems
and Reduce Service Costs?

No
Yes 11%
100%
Yes
89%


 Responses to Question 3.7 depicted below Fig-15: Responses to Question 3.8
(100%) affirmed to the fact that the ability 4. What can be Done to Improve and Sustain
to schedule pickups and deliveries has been Standards of SCM Through ICT in the
made possible and even improved with Mining Industry?
infusion of ICT into the Mine SCM.  Responses to Question 4.1 (The Presence
of ICT in Your Mine SCM Will Help to
Achieve the Concept of JIT and Also Help
Improve and Sustain Standards in Your
Mine SCM?) depicted below in table 7,
showed that 16 (34%) of the respondents

654 | P a g e

“Strongly Agree”, another 16 (34%)
“Agree” to and the remaining 4 respondents Question 4.3: Reduction of Overall Production
(11%) are “Neutral”.From table 7, further Costs by Streamlining the Products Flow Within
applying the Likert Scale Mean Formula to the Production Process and Improving
the responses of Question 4.1, depicted the Information Flow Between Business Partners
result shown below: Will Lead to Improved and Sustainable

 N  60  1.7
Standards of SCM Through ICT in the Mining I
Mean 
 n 36 No
Question 4.1 are aligned to scale 2 (“Agree”). 11%

Table-7: Responses to Question 4.1
SA A NL D SD  Yes
Scale (s) 1 2 3 4 5 89%
Frequency
16 16 4 0 0
(n) 36
N = (n*s) 16 32 12 0 0 60
Mean 1.666667
(100%) affirmed to the fact that continuous  Responses to Question 4.4 (The Presence
information sharing, transparency and of ICT in Your Mine SCM Would Improve
visibility on inventory and purchase orders and Sustain Standards of Your SCM by
statuses are ways that can lead to improved Enabling Delivery Speed, Inventory
and sustainable standards of SCM through Visibility, and Flexibility in Operations
ICT in the Mining Industry. Through the Seamless Cooperation With
Both the Internal Customers and Key
Suppliers/Vendors is Considered an
Question 4.2: Continuous Information Approach That Will lead to Improved and
Sharing, Transparency & Visibility on Inventory Sustainable Standards of SCM Through
and Purchase Orders Statuses are Ways That can ICT in the Mining Industry?) depicted
Lead to Improved and Sustainable Standards of below in table 8, showed that 24 (67%) of
SCM Through ICT in the Mining Industry? the respondents “Strongly Agree” and 12
No (33%) “Agree” to Question 4.4. From table
0% 8, further applying the Likert Scale Mean
Formula to the responses of Question 4.4,
depicted the result shown below:

Yes Mean 
 N 48
  1.33

100%  n 36
 Responses to Question 4.3 depicted below Agree”).
in figure 17, showed that 32 respondents
(89%) affirmed to the fact that reduction of Table-8: Responses to Question 4.4

overall production costs by streamlining
the products flow within the production SA A NL D SD
process and improving information flow Scale (s) 1 2 3 4 5
between business partners will lead to Frequency
improved and sustainable standards of 24 12 0 0 0
(n) 36
SCM through ICT in the Mining Industry N = (n*s) 24 24 0 0 0 48
whereas 4 (11%) said otherwise. Mean 1.333333

(100%) affirmed to the fact that developing

655 | P a g e

high valued supply chain relationships and  Responses to Question 4.7 depicted below
enhancing customer services level will lead in figure 19, showed that all 36 respondents
to the achievement of high level (100%) affirmed to the fact and believe that
competitive advantage in the resources and consistent stock-takes and stock analysis
finances competitive business can help eliminate stock-out of critical raw
environments. materials and parts at the warehouse.
Question 4.5: Developing High Valued Supply
Question 4.7: Consistent Stock-Takes and Stock
Chain Relationships and Enhancing Internal
Analysis can Help Eliminate Stock-Out of
Customer Services Level Will Lead to the
Critical Raw Materials and Parts at the
Achievement of High Level Competitive
Warehouse. Do you Believe This Underlying
Advantage in the Resources and Finances
Process Would be Improved and Sustained by
Competitive Business Environment?
Adapting ICT in Your Mine SCM?
Yes No
Yes No 0%
0%

100%

100%

 Responses to Question 4.8 (An increase in
the SCM Operational Performance
Fig-18: Responses to Question 4.5 Through a Prompt Action in Handling
Requisitions at the Issuing Point will Lead
 Responses to Question 4.6 (What is Your to Improved and sustainable Standards of
Take on the View That Real-Time Posting SCM through ICT in the Mining Industry?)
of Requisitions for Items Which are Taken- depicted below in table 10, showed that 32
off the Shelves Will Help to Improve and (89%) of the respondents “Strongly Agree”
Sustain Standards of SCM Through ICT in and the remaining 4 (11%) “Agree” to
the Mining Industry?) depicted below in Question 4.8. From table 10, further
table 9, showed that 24 (67%) of the applying the Likert Scale Mean Formula to
respondents “Strongly Agree”, 8 (22%) the responses of Question 4.8, depicted the
“Agree” and the remaining 4 (11%) result shown below:
“Strongly Disagree” to Question 4.6. From
table 9, further applying the Likert Scale Mean 
 N  40  1.11
Mean Formula to the responses of Question  n 36
4.6, depicted the result shown below: This result depicts that most of the responses to

Mean 
 N 60
  1.7
Agree”).
 n 36 Table-10: Responses to Question 4.8
Question 4.6 are aligned to scale 2 (“Agree”).
SA A NL D SD 
Scale (s) 1 2 3 4 5
Table-9: Responses to Question 4.6 Frequency
32 4 0 0 0
(n) 36
SA A NL D SD  N = (n*s) 32 8 0 0 0 40
Scale (s) 1 2 3 4 5 Mean 1.111111
Frequency
24 8 0 0 4
(n) 36 V.RESEARCH DISCUSSIONS
N = (n*s) 24 16 0 0 20 60 This section of the paper presents and
Mean 1.666667 discusses the synthesis of the research findings from
both the operational (senior officers) team members
and the management members on the subject matter.

656 | P a g e

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