Based on a “Net Value” view of the orebody and what waste stripping or development is required. Consider what should be in or out of the mine design to maximise value.

Optimising the pushback design to provide early access to high-value material and defer waste/development costs.

The sequence and rate of mine production, delaying waste/development and prioritising value without compromising the future of the operation.

Based on “Net Value per Bottleneck Unit” not “grades”. Raising the cut-off grade above break-even on a dynamic basis can substantially increase economic value.

Deferring rather than wasting lower value material. This mechanism prioritises value, provides operational flexibility and creates commercial options.

Controlling the range of certain characteristics for the plant feed or the product is a function of time and place. What are the operational or commercial penalties and rewards for hard vs soft blending limits?

Varying plant throughput will have a significant impact on recoveries and processing costs.

A range of products could be produced over time with a significant impact on recovery, transportation costs and product commercial terms.

Adjusting capacity to pursue margin rather than cost minimisation. More costly logistics, used under the right circumstances, can produce increased overall value.

Capital decisions should not be made in isolation. With dozens of interrelated capital decisions, the matrix to explore can be substantial and the financial benefits significant.