Mining operations have used 3D technologies for many years. These technologies provide important benefits to both open-pit and underground mining operations. The technologies used to capture 3D information include aerial and satellite imagery, laser, global positioning systems and conventional surveying equipment. AAM company has employed the use of LiDAR successfully for the purposes of acquiring high resolution data suitable for mining calculations. Photo Mapping Services, an Australian based survey company has had similar success employing LiDAR in mine and quarry operations. Fugro, operating throughout Asia has also had considerable success employing several 3D enabled technologies.

The technology available to acquire this information has progressed rapidly, adding analysis and processing to the mix. But needs do not stop there. Visualisation is a primary need for communicating the often large data inventories that mining operations generate.

Consequently 3D visualization enables mine personnel with the opportunity to interpret borehole data, surface / sub-surface and extraction changes, road network planning and geological data.

Much of the captured information for mining operations, particularly where surface operations involved, finds its way through a longer lifecycle that extends beyond the mine operations to include reclamation, hydrological monitoring and even recreational and even urban planning efforts. The data is immediately useful to professionals in these fields due to it's often high accuracy and resolution.