About Us

Learn more about the history of HiveMap’s geological mapping software and the people who developed it.

Created and developed by world-leading experts in mining and geoscience

HiveMap was created by SRK Consulting to enhance mapping and data interpretation of remotely gathered rock exposure data. This initiative aimed to boost data availability for better geological interpretations and client deliverables. SRK continues to play a significant role in guiding HiveMap, with a dedicated team of seasoned industry professionals driving its development and user engagement.

ABOUT US

The History of HiveMap

SRK needed a reliable and accurate geological mapping tool that was easy to use and allowed all forms of geological mapping information to be captured. We originally developed a small tablet solution, but the software became incompatible with modern technology. We recognized the potential of augmented and virtual reality solutions, to improve the quality of mapping both at the rock face and from remote scanned images. EasyMineXR (now rebranded as HiveMap) was developed initially in collaboration with Simon Fraser University, and after the programmer was hired by SRK, the desktop version was developed. The on-going development of the software tools was based on SRK’s requirements and that of an international mining group.

SRK collects and interprets accurate geological mapping data to inform our clients on the nature of their rocks. We needed better tools for collecting the data, and formed an alliance with SFU. SRK funded a PhD student who eventually joined SRK to help drive mapping technology. The development has been leaning towards the complementary use of drone-based image technology, essentially allowing data collection from previously inaccessible locations. The software tools developed also allows advanced analysis of that collected data.

Meet the Visionaries Behind HiveMap

Dr. Wayne Barnett, Concept Developer

Principal Consultant (Structural Geology), PhD., P.Geo

Wayne has a 26-year career that spans both disciplines and continents. His professional life started in South Africa, working for De Beers as a structural geologist and geotechnical engineer. This early exposure to the integration between structural geology and engineering, and the critical nature of accurately mapping geological features has instilled a life long passion to educate industry, explore new technologies, and create new solutions to build a safer, informed, and more economic mining industry. This passion culminated in the decision that there had to be a better way to map and integrate geological observations, and the original concept for HiveMap.

man sitting at desk in front of computer with hands on keyboard and mouse

Dr. Emre Onsel, Head of Development

Senior Consultant (Mining Engineering), PhD.

Emre has a distinguished academic career, graduating from the Istanbul Technical University with a PhD in Mining Engineering in 2014. In 2015 he joined Simon Fraser University, and shortly after became involved with the HiveMap project. Emre was drawn to the practical applications of the tool, solving a real-world problem which had applications across the mining industry. Emre’s belief in HiveMap led to him joining SRK in 2020 as a full-time employee to continue development, and he particularly values the real time feedback he gets from being integrated into a highly technical team that are near-daily users of the mapping tool he has built.

Findlay Fraser, Sales Director

Principal Consultant (Structural Geology), MSc., P.Geo.

Findlay is a structural geologist with 15 years of experience in the world of 3D geological modelling. He specializes in building complex, integrated litho-structural models that utilize as many datasets as possible, and are verified against all available mapping and exposure – the rocks can’t lie! Throughout his career, he has embraced different mapping technologies and solutions, including doing photogrammetry in the Pilbara and running LiDAR scanning campaigns in Botswana. During his career he also spent time working in software sales and support, and is pleased to bring that knowledge to support the launch of HiveMap.

man standing near rocks with trees in the background

Andrew LeRiche, Technical Director

Senior Consultant (Mining Rock Mechanics), Ma.Sc., P.Eng.

Andrew is a geotechnical engineer with 8 years of experience working in the world of rock mechanics. Growing up in Labrador City as a third generation geologist and engineer, he has always been surounded by the mining industry. This built a passion in Andrew for understanding the rocks in detail to support his work, and he has been a passionate advocate for and user of HiveMap since the early prototype stages. The ability to generate rapid and confident interpretation, linked between the digital and physical worlds, is something that he views as a requirement for every project, and he sees HiveMap as the best tool to do this.

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