Regulation Struggles to Keep Pace with Technology

Q: What does Delta Solutions expect from its mining division?

A: Delta Solutions will celebrate 30 years in the market in 2018 and although we work in a variety of sectors we see great opportunity in mining. As the sector recovered in 2016 and 2017, we made a conscious decision to expand our mining division and are now devoting more time and resources to the mineral extraction industry. We have been working with Industrias Peñoles for 28 years. Delta Solutions is strengthening its client relationships and with the help of constantly evolving technology, working with them to solve specific issues. We recently signed a deal with Minera Media Luna, a subsidiary of Torex Gold, and we also work extensively with Goldcorp. Mining now represents at least 20 percent of our total sales, up 2 percent from the previous year.

Q: What are the main technological trends dominating the communications industry?

A: We are focused on improving on-site means of communication for mining companies, to the extent that it becomes a key contributor to productivity and, most importantly, security. It is also vital to make sure new designs are adaptable and scalable. Our clients are under pressure to become more sustainable and therefore they cannot be seen throwing away their old models each time a new design becomes available. We therefore always ensure the upgrades complement existing units, rather than replace them, which has economic benefits for our customers.

The biggest breakthrough in radiocommunication technology is a concept called unified communications. Previously, radiocommunication was used exclusively for sending messages between specific operating teams but now these messages can be transmitted across various mediums including mobile phones, tablets and any other device that has access to Wi-Fi. The user simply has to download an app, which is widely accessible, and then connect to the other members of the team. This means that workers in any mine in the world can communicate with each other via radio. Around 10 years ago, many observers thought the radiocommunication industry was on the verge of collapse but unified communications have brought it back to the forefront of mine operations. This technology also represents a step forward in terms of mine security because every worker can be located using an indoor GPS system. Each unit is fitted with an alarm system that sounds every time the radio is horizontal for more than 30 seconds to warn of a worker accident or fall.

Q: How open is Mexico to this new technology?

A: I believe there is tremendous progress being made. The people making decisions in mines in Mexico are well versed in technology and innovation and the benefits it can bring.

The issue today is not technology or finances, but regulation. The authorities need to catch up. Radio frequencies in Mexico are heavily regulated and unfortunately this means that it can be difficult to obtain the permits to apply the unified communication technology. The laws have not been adapted to reflect technological developments, and this is limiting the sector in Mexico. However, a new law was recently passed that requires all individuals working in a mine to be in constant communication with each other for security reasons. This is not possible if we cannot access the radio frequencies so I am optimistic that we will soon see an improvement in this area.

Q: Which strategies does the company have in place to continue growing and expanding its client base in Mexico?

A: The radiocommunication industry is becoming reliant on Wi-Fi technology, and this is dependent on networks so we need to streamline all our innovation efforts to strengthen this area of the business. Happily, the company is growing on a yearly basis. To celebrate our 30th birthday, we will be opening a new office in Monterrey and our workforce will be increasing to over 80 employees.