Accelerating Progress Toward Achieving Digital Oilfield Workflow Efficiencies

Abstract

Abstract The Upstream Oil and Gas Industry is working toward asset optimization through various Digital Oil Field of the Future (DOFF) programs. Significant progress has been made over the past few years, but the mission is not complete. The industry is still faced with challenges that inhibit system interoperability and in turn reduce workflow efficiencies. When one considers the software and data integration requirements to achieve the vision of the digital oilfield, one has to wonder if the Upstream Oil and Gas Industry will be able to maintain DOFF progress or if our advancements toward the digital oilfield may begin to plateau before we reach our objective. This paper considers the question "What are the key considerations to achieve the workflow efficiencies envisioned for the digital oilfield and how can we accelerate this process?" The authors probe the answer to this question by reviewing various IT-related standards activities, how they might improve workflow efficiencies, and the need for better coordination across standards development. The discussion will illustrate why the Upstream Oil and Gas Industry struggles with software and data integration. In conclusion, the authors will present thoughts around a path forward which they believe will help realize the industry's aspirations for the digital oilfield.