In creating a consistent roadmap for preparing and evaluating projects, this course provides a framework for ensuring the right tasks are pursued at the right time, and outlines the steps required to present information in a compelling way. The course will provide participants the tools they need to inform decision making to advance studies at key project milestones and support evaluation. The course shares the stages in a project development study process – from scoping through to front-end engineering and design. By following a structured process, course participants can ensure a standardised approach that can be applied across resource projects.

Module 1 | Introduction, Environment, Social and Permitting

• Describe why study guidelines are important, and the different interpretations
• Identify naming conventions and list the components of each study phase
• Describe the considerations to address in a study for internal and external audience groups
• Develop a personal list of valuable resources and international standards
• Describe the scene setting aspects of a study
• Describe the environmental and social considerations for a study
• Identify types of permits, other than the ESIA permit, which may be required

Module 2 | Geology, Mining and Metallurgy

• Recognise the link between deposit knowledge and study definition
• Identify important strategic concepts in developing a life-of-mine plan
• Explain the influence of mineral-deposit characteristics on mining and processing strategies
• Outline the impact of mining and processing design-and-scheduling decisions, on business outcomes
• Recognise technical risk-management-strategies applied in studies, to address inherent uncertainty 

Module 3 | Engineering Requirements, Forward Work Plans and Study Process Controls

• Identify the key engineering components required to support the project
• Demonstrate a structured framework for advancing engineering design at the right time through the study process
• Recognise the importance of establishing study controls
• Recognise the importance of the role and requirement for forward works and project implementation plans

Module 4 | The Business Case (and wrap-up)

• List the key components of a study charter and business case
• Develop and communicate an effective value proposition
• Describe the assessment of risk in a sustainable business case
• Explain the concept of transparency and accuracy for each of level of study for decision-makers

This course is suitable for:

• Project managers - Influence project progression through key milestones and approval gates; and better understand how to interpret cases put to you for approval
• Study managers - Learn how to follow processes required to craft compelling proposals to secure support for your projects
• Exploration managers - Learn how to present information in a way that creates a compelling argument for investors

• A good working knowledge of English.
• AusIMM courses are generally suitable for people who have completed their tertiary education and have been in the workforce for at least two years.
• No other pre-requisites are required.