SRK Consulting Drives Engineering Innovation with In-House Digital Expertise
As digital technologies continue to reshape the consulting engineering landscape, SRK Consulting (South Africa) is leading the charge by embedding cutting-edge data solutions into its core operations through its dedicated in-house Data Services unit.
According to Ansu Louw, Principal GIS Consultant and Lead of SRK’s Data Services, the initiative has rapidly evolved since its inception in 2020—from a small team to a dynamic group of eight professionals including data engineers, software developers, and data scientists.
“We launched the unit as part of our digital transformation journey,” said Louw. “Today, it’s central to delivering smart, specialised tools that enhance project efficiency and innovation.”
Streamlining Workflows Through Automation
Initially accelerated by the demands of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Data Services team now focuses on sophisticated data engineering techniques to optimise how data is collected, stored, analysed, and visualised.
“This empowers our engineers and scientists with tools to process big data and uncover deeper insights,” Louw explained. “By staying on the pulse of emerging technologies, we help SRK’s teams stay informed and future-ready.”
Among the standout innovations is a custom-developed field logger app for rock mass characterisation, replacing manual, error-prone methods with a digital tool that automates calculations and improves accuracy.
“It reduces human error by limiting input parameters and providing instant feedback,” said William Joughin, Corporate Consultant and renowned rock engineering expert at SRK. “It’s a game changer in terms of both speed and reliability.”
Accelerated Analysis and Smarter Insights
Another innovation, KinApp, enables rapid kinematic analysis of slope stability, condensing what previously took hours into minutes—cutting computation time by up to 60%. It also provides instant graphical outputs to quickly identify risk zones and inform slope design.
The integration of digital platforms also plays a vital role in complex projects like tailings management. By incorporating instruments such as vibrating wire piezometers and inclinometers into real-time digital frameworks, SRK helps clients monitor and manage Tailings Storage Facility (TSF) performance more effectively in alignment with the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM).
Upskilling and Knowledge Sharing
To further support digital transformation, SRK offers an accredited training course covering Python programming, data analytics with Power BI, and broader digital workflows. Recognised by SACNASP and ECSA, the course earns attendees valuable CPD points. A shorter version targets project coordinators and admin staff, ensuring digital proficiency across all levels.
SRK’s engineers and scientists frequently consult the Data Services unit for advice, tool development, and custom coding support—bridging the gap between traditional engineering and digital innovation.
Innovation in Action
The unit’s expertise has contributed to numerous client projects, including automated tools for processing meteorological data—enhancing analysis of parameters like humidity, rainfall, and evaporation.
“Our digital contributions support not just efficiency but technical excellence,” said Joughin. “With richer datasets and advanced analytics, we’re unlocking new possibilities, particularly in fields like tailings management.”
Several of SRK’s digital innovations will be showcased at the upcoming SAIMM Conference on Digital Transformation in Mining, highlighting the firm’s commitment to shaping the future of engineering through technology.
