In the first section of this thesis, two laboratory experiments conducted on tailing samples were evaluated using a structured qualitative analysis procedure. The process model of Suppliers, Inputs, Process, Output, and Customers (SIPOC) was used to study relationships amongst different parts of the experimental processes and to build a process model that fits the output requirements and covers all essential parts of the system. This model was chosen for this study as it allows for different aspects of system description from supply of samples to the delivery of reports to the customers. As part of the model, a process flow diagram was developed to establish how inputs are used to produce outputs identified in the SIPOC model and every activity of the process flow was analysed using an Integrated Definition - 0 (IDEF0) model. A process value analysis was finally performed to identify non-value added activities, if any, in the procedure. The results indicated the absence of non-value added activities in both procedures and emphasized the importance of execution of every element of the process. It, however, suggested automation of repetitive tasks and active database management.

In the second section of this thesis, two procedures were created to describe bitumen profiles of total bitumen content (TBC) in drill cores scanned using a hyperspectral imaging system, so that information flow could be streamlined and low value-added processes might be automated. The profiles represent variation in TBC as a function of depth along the drill core and convey statistical parameters computed at a range of drill core downhole resolutions. Two procedures were created in the Environment for Visualizing Images (ENVI) and written in Interactive Data Language (IDL) to create these profiles and were compared on the basis of time and accuracy. The first method, also called "The Basic Approach", presented higher accuracy while the second method, also called "The Improved Method", reduced the processing time from hours to a few minutes. The profile generation tools would allow facilitation of multi data analysis by providing comparison to other forms of profiles, such as geophysical. They, however, don't consider missing drill cores and ignore cracks in the core samples.