IQMS Australasia were contacted by an organisation based out of one of South Australia's most important regions for mining and resources, the Upper Spencer Gulf. The organisation has operated for a number of years in Roxby Downs as a minor supplier for BHP and other local businesses.

The project started over initial concerns by our client that, despite already being in business in the area for some time, they were unable to secure critical work with key suppliers due to a lack of internal systems, resulting in several issues which later became key deliverables for this project.

IQMS Australasia developed a unique approach which included the following:

• Ensure internal systems can be developed to include compliance and certification to key ISO Standards
• Develop a custom, cloud-based platform to help automate granular processes to increase efficiency
• Embed custom asset management tools within the cloud-based platform to allow our client to better manage key assets
• Consider the various needs/requirements of the 2 major mining primes in the area to ensure our client is best positioned to secure upcoming work

Our passion is for those SMEs in regional areas who may not have direct access to the help and support they need. This can include basic business support, high-level strategic development, knowledge and training around basic cloud-based tech which may assist their business, ISO compliance, etc.

SMEs in these areas do not always have local businesses who can support their business needs. We strongly believe our services make a big difference to SMEs growing and improving their business. It is also important they can see someone cares about their business, local region and industry.

Like those SMEs we want to see grow, we too wish to shine a light on what our business can do for others. We believe this nomination (and hopefully, award) may help encourage others to seek opportunities to improve their organisation and take steps to do what our client has achieved.

No matter your industry, South Australia has something to boast about, even in sectors not historically associated with our state such as the Space Industry.

Starting from our state capital, Adelaide is one of the most liveable cities in the world.

We have many world-class businesses operating from our state and we have an enviable motor racing heritage with amazing car events.

We also needn’t forget the amazing South Australian produce from wine, cheese, seafood and other gourmet foods.

Lastly, our great state has some incredibly strategically important resources which position us well economically amongst other things.

Many providers similar to ours are potentially facing a challenge to their relevancy as AI, cloud-based software, apps, and so on are providing for the basic needs of many organisations. The image of the “traditional consultant” is changing, many business leaders are engaging with apps and productivity tools.

IQMS Australasia are currently working on something incredibly exciting which aims at taking advantage of this cultural, technological and social shift.

Like that which is noted above, there is a cultural shift in our industry. For us to remain successful and relevant in an uncertain future, we have to deliver our services in a different way. We must integrate/transition our services further into the digital world, whilst not losing that personal touch.

The good news is we are well on our way to progressing on this journey and are incredibly excited for the future of our organisation.

There are so many success stories and information that fail to reach the greater industry and people in general. Events and initiatives such as these allow for these stories to be heard and celebrated.

We personally find the event an encouraging reminder for what our state is doing and the many amazing people and projects which make up the mining and resources sector.

An honest answer to this question would be that there are many opportunities where we must share success stories. They may not be as big as others but still contribute to the amazing narrative of our state.

This project had a moment for the Systems Specialist delivering the project, whereby he noted the client had engaged with the cloud-based solution we provided like not many other clients had. Despite being in a remote region, in an industry not historically associated with smart technology and providing a service not traditionally associated with cloud-based solutions, the client was incredibly receptive and enthusiastic.

At risk of appearing clichéd, it was exceptionally invigorating and reminded us of the important role IQMS Australasia was playing in the regional areas.

Intrapreneurship – We are a team which encourages each other to engage with our entrepreneurial selves to seek ways to better help our clients.

Scarce resources – Our line of expertise is particularly difficult to find, thus resulting in an inability to grow our team as we once would have liked. However, this impact to our business has forced us to seek more innovative means to develop our business and increase our capacity.

Work-life balance – Our Managing Director, Greg Clothier, has always valued work-life balance. This is reciprocated with an appreciative team who feel they are much more effectual without the traditional burdens of a standard 9 to 5 and overtime. This has certainly been a critical success factor for IQMS Australasia.

It is difficult not to find success as a state with so many resources and industries available here. We also have a culture and history much more conducive to healthy living, positive family life, good income and welfare for those with lower income.

As previously noted, our state is quite well positioned globally, which is a great place to be if you are a business operating in South Australia. We also have stability over the Eastern states (which may lack growth at times) which is important for all those SMEs that don’t have the means to support themselves through peaks and troughs.

Mental health – There is so much support and information out there, it is important to equip yourself for both you and others around you.

Financial management – Our industry is blessed to have prospects for amazing income; however, it needs to be balanced with sound financial management.

Professional development – No matter your position, our industry offers so many opportunities for professional development. Take the time to invest in yourself and your future.