Emerging Frontiers: Keeping Up With Emerging Communication

Abstract

President's column In this first article on technological frontiers, I will focus on the ways in which modern knowledge-transfer avenues are impacting the industry and, more specifically, SPE. While communication methods like social media have been in our vocabulary for years, their presence is now ubiquitous in our workplace and, more recently, on our mobile devices. Just look at how social media and mobile devices are now being used as tools to disseminate information about current events. Beyond using the various social media methods “socially” and for news, the technologies behind the methods are changing the way we work. It is estimated that the number of social network users around the world will increase 18% from 1.47 billion in 2012 (eMarketer newsletter, 18 June 2013) to 1.73 billion this year. Granted, some of this could be posting our latest travel pictures on Facebook or tweeting about vacations, but I see engineers, particularly young professionals, or the “Sony” generation as I like to call them, writing blogs on their specific engineering issues, posting comments on The Way Ahead Facebook page, and using many other of SPE’s social media platforms. As the use of social media has grown among our members, SPE has recognized the need to create and engage with members through social media outlets. With the evolving crew change, it is important that we reach and share with members, particularly young members—where they are and where they expect us to be. Building and maintaining social media platforms are necessary to engage with membership. In line with SPE’s mission to collect, disseminate, and exchange technical knowledge, our social media channels serve that purpose while also allowing SPE and its members the platform to engage, share, learn, and interact with sections, chapters, companies, and industry enthusiasts from around the world. From showcasing the latest news in our flagship magazine, JPT, to highlighting student chapters, to what one can expect at an upcoming event, to who will be instructing training courses, SPE’s social media channels are designed to communicate all things SPE. SPE Social Media Our social media channels are varied, with each serving a different purpose. Facebook is the hub, where SPE activities are shared directly with more than 32,000 connections. With a following consisting predominantly of university students and young professionals, a recent Facebook posting about why people chose a career in the oil and gas industry sparked a lot of comments about the great benefits of working in the industry. The post was viewed by more than 11,000 people. At a time when the industry is in need of talented young people, it is exchanges like this that will help communicate the benefits of the industry and reach the level of human resources needed to meet future demand.