A Novel Use of Digital Technologies for More Effective Multi-Party Well Planning and Execution

Abstract

Abstract Operators, service providers, and contractors are improving the well construction system using transformative digital technologies across multiple companies and within levels of disparate organizations. Well plans are managed in a new way with the creation,execution and continuous improvement of processes to materially deliver value from the onset. A typical operator’s well planning process involves developing a well program across multiple internal and external entities in the design and plan stages while various requirements and details are considered and confirmed. As the well gets closer to being drilled, the well plan must also consider the capabilities and technologies supported by the service companies and drilling contractor.This people-based process leads to variability in assumptions and objectives in standardized plans which can result in execution risk and variations in safety, quality, delivery, and cost (SQDC) performance. One major variability source occurs because of the disconnected nature in which people move data between one another in well planning documents and then to field operations. The authors propose a new way to manage this process across organization and discipline boundaries to reduce this variability. This paper details how digital technologies were incorporated into an agile pilot program to create a common framework for the exchange and management of the well plan. It follows the plan from its development to implementation in a unified, seamless process. Further the authors will demonstrate how the solution was developed across multiple organizations to deliver material value to all parties. Three companies created a collaborative business model to deliver a new digital system enhancing well construction planning and execution in terms of speed and completeness of data transfer, ease of access,and availability for building new data-based workflows and reporting. This business model continues to drive alignment throughout the companies’ well delivery business functions. This paper illustrates, "What is the value that digital transformation brings to my organization or job function".The simple answer is that if executed effectively, the transformation should produce a material improvement or outcome for the business. Digital technology creates material business value as a project management tool directly coupled with wellsite technologies. This approach, in turn, will enable improvement of the well design and SQDC performance in the delivery of the well plan.