The Best Driller in the Gulf of Mexico

Abstract

Abstract An analysis of more than 100 Gulf of Mexico (GOM) deepwater wells reveals that one operator is experiencing more drilling success than its peers in terms of consistent and repeatable top quartile drilling performance. These results are driven by the operator’s commitment to its drilling philosophy, its strong and well-established partnership with key service contractors, and its core drilling team of experienced and technically sound professionals. One service company has developed an enduring relationship with the operator and contributes to the performance that the operator demands. Such performance requires a well-aligned focus between the service company and the operator. Four key areas have been identified that have allowed this partnership to thrive: people and culture, performance, structure and processes, and technology. These key areas have played in major role in delivering multiple GOM drilling records, including the top 13 fastest wells (days per 1000 ft) from spud to total depth (TD)—with some wells drilled through extended salt intervals at IADC rate of penetration (ROP) records. Real results show how best-in-class performance can be achieved when the four identified keys to the successful partnership are combined to complement and enhance each other’s strengths.