Largely due to technological developments such as automated analysis and remote sensing, the quantity of data available to the mineral exploration geologist has increased enormously in the last 30 years. IT now provides us with a number of tools to maximise the use of this information and enable all those engaged in the minerals sector (from exploration geologist to mine planner and regulatory officer) to work more effectively. Relational databases linked to customised GIS minerals information systems such as BGS's MINGOL allow disparate datasets to be stored, modified, integrated, interrogated and displayed prior to output in formats tailored to suit the user's needs or the demands of the end-product. This may take the form of a digital or hard-copy map, CD-ROM, report or book. Increasingly these products are advertised or sold in digital form via the Internet. Mineral deposit models for many types of ore deposit are now well documented. These models can be defined as systematically arranged information describing the essential properties of a particular group of deposits and are used to constrain mineral exploration decisions. Coupled with minerals information systems, normally using regional-scale datasets, they can be used to determine prospective areas. This can be achieved by multidataset analysis in an essentially qualitative way, using the coincidence of a number of features thought to be typical of a particular deposit type displayed on a GIS, or in a more quantitative and objective manner using 'data-driven' or 'knowledge-based' decision support systems based on statistical and mathematical methodologies. Prospectivity mapping of this type is becoming increasingly important in countries such as Britain where there are multiple demands on land-use requiring rapid and authoritative information on the potential for mineral deposits in a particular area. 3D modelling software systems are increasingly involved at all stages of mineral development from exploration through mine planning to aftercare and restoration. The systems promote a synergy between different disciplines by assisting easy understanding and visualisation of each other's problems and testing different models in the search for viable solutions. At the prospect development stage the software is particularly useful for merging, displaying and visualising drillhole and other data in complex geological situations and testing the data against geological models. By the application of statistical tools the software is also able to assist greatly in the calculation of ore reserves and the planning of mine development. These systems are also increasingly able to model environmental impacts, for example due to groundwater movement, and as a result will play an increasing role at the planning permissions stage of any development. In the near future, as the power of computing systems continue to develop, we envisage digital 3D modelling moving from the local to regional scale while retaining the detail currently associated with local scales. Geological maps will be provided in the form of 3D digital datasets for visualisation from any angle and combination with other datasets. These developments will empower decision-makers in making sound judgements with respect to land use, environmental impact and sustainable development.
