Summary

A global mining company digitized drilling data reporting using a progressive web app with offline capability, improving accuracy, reporting, and decision-making in remote locations.

Challenge

The client, a Canadian-based international mining company specializing in precious metals, relied on paper forms and offline spreadsheets to report drilling progress. This manual approach led to frequent data validation errors, inconsistent reporting, and delays—especially in remote areas with limited internet connectivity.

The objective was to digitize drilling progress reporting and ensure reliable data validation. The company needed an offline-capable solution that could automate workflows, reduce errors, and deliver actionable insights through analytics.

Solution

Marlabs implemented a four-phase solution using Microsoft technologies and intelligent automation.

Application development & offline capability

In the first phase, Marlabs developed a progressive web application (PWA) that enabled offline data entry and validation. This allowed field teams to capture drilling data even in remote environments without internet access. Validation logic was built into the app to ensure data accuracy before syncing with central systems.

Integration with SharePoint & Azure Functions

The second phase focused on integrating the PWA with SharePoint Online and Azure Functions. This created a seamless flow of validated data into the organization’s systems. Azure Functions handled backend processing, while SharePoint served as a secure repository for structured data.

Analytics & Power BI reporting

In phase three, Marlabs developed Power BI dashboards tailored to drilling operations. These reports provided advanced analytics, visual insights, and performance tracking. Security controls were embedded to ensure role-based access and data integrity across reporting layers.

Workflow automation & validation

The final phase introduced flexible approval workflows and automated validation rules. These enhancements streamlined the reporting process, reduced delays, and minimized human error. The validation framework ensured that only accurate and complete data progressed through the system.

Results

The digital solution delivered measurable improvements:

• Improved data accuracy: Offline validation ensured fewer errors in drilling progress reports.
• Enhanced reporting: Power BI delivered advanced analytics and visual insights.
• Greater productivity: Simplified approval processes reduced delays and inefficiencies.
• Stronger security: Role-based access controls ensured data integrity.
• Increased flexibility: Offline functionality allowed seamless reporting without internet connectivity.
• Better decision-making: Real-time analytics supported operational and strategic planning.

Impact

The modernization initiative delivered lasting benefits:

• Improved data accuracy in remote environments
• Enhanced reporting with advanced analytics
• Greater productivity through streamlined workflows
• Stronger security with role-based access
• Increased flexibility for offline operations
• Better decision-making with real-time insights