Although technology and circumstances are in a constant state of change, the principles of managing the human element remain constant._x000D_
The isolated mining community continues to form the backbone of the minerals industry but the nature of the isolation, along with the economic and political environment of the industry, is changing. These changes require new inputs by management to the workforce. Management must determine an effective working relationship with unions on its mine site and concurrently contribute to the build- up of the expertise of the individual worker through training and communication. It must also retain a proper balance, by way of human contribution, in cost and information reporting and in other areas amenable to computerisation. These comprise the aids to management necessary to achieve the desired operating efficiency and profitability.