When it comes to improvement consulting in the mining sector, the traditional route often seems straight out of an old playbook: consultants land on-site, conduct a brief evaluation—loosely termed as ‘kicking the tyres’—and then spend weeks crafting a diagnosis. They deliver a neatly packaged report detailing the problems and proposing solutions, charging hefty fees for insights primarily gleaned from the site’s own workforce. After presenting their findings, these consultants typically ‘wash their hands’ of the implementation process, adopting an attitude that they are paid for advice, not results. If the advice fails to yield improvements, the blame is often shifted onto the client for not following through correctly. This lack of accountability is precisely where Waymaker breaks the mould.
At Waymaker, we recognise that the key to genuine and lasting improvement doesn’t come from outside reports but from within the site itself, driven by the people who know it best. Unlike traditional consultants who often parachute in with little more than a theoretical understanding of the issues at hand, Waymaker’s team comes with over 25 years of hands-on experience in the mining industry. Our approach is grounded in empathy and practical knowledge, allowing us to connect with site workers not just as consultants but as peers who truly understand the challenges they face daily.
From day one, we focus on adding tangible value, not just at the end of our engagement. We dive right in, collaborating closely with the on-site team—the real experts—to identify pain points and implement immediate, impactful changes. This proactive approach is anchored by our unique Impact101 methodology, a framework designed to catalyse rapid, sustainable improvements across all levels of operation. You can learn more about Impact101 here. This proactive approach means that Waymaker has already initiated significant improvements and moved the dial by the time other consultants are wrapping up their presentations.
But our commitment doesn’t stop at making changes. We ensure that we leave behind a robust methodology that acts as a catalyst for an enduring culture shift towards continuous improvement. Effective change management empowers the on-site teams to take the reins and drive ongoing progress long after our consultants have departed. This sustainable model fosters a proactive work environment and enhances productivity and operational efficiency in the long term.
In essence, Waymaker isn’t just about consulting — it’s about transforming the very paradigm of how improvement is approached in the mining industry. By embedding ourselves within the culture and daily activities of the sites we work with, we ensure that improvements are not only suggested but also ingrained and sustained through a collaborative, hands-on approach. At Waymaker, we don’t just leave behind a report; we leave behind a legacy of improvement and empowerment.
Conclusion
In a world where traditional consulting often feels detached and superficial, Waymaker stands out by being genuinely involved. If you’re looking for a partner who will work with you, feel your challenges as their own, and deliver not just advice but real, actionable change, Waymaker is your go-to consultancy. Let’s transform challenges into opportunities and drive real, lasting progress together.