Getting Software Risk Mitigation Right from the Start

Abstract

Abstract Software is the most invisible and one of the largest risks on high-specification offshore assets. For example, 40 – 56% of NPT is comprised of control systems software and hardware integration problems.1 These problems are often caused by insufficient contractual software specifications and inadequate audit and test activities which leave your assets vulnerable to risks associated with software failure including non-productive time (NPT) and health, safety and environmental (HSE) incidents. Implementing proven methods for software risk identification, tracking and mitigation early in the asset lifecycle can help reduce these risks. A lifecycle approach (from design through to operations) helps ensure that control systems software functions as intended. Ultimately, this helps to reduce the risk of HSE incidents and prevent the additional remediation costs that can be incurred when software issues are not identified early. This presentation will include real-life examples and will focus on lifecycle methods for reducing software risk. Topics will include: Implementation of contractual language that supports the ongoing performance of your control systemsDetermining and tracking control systems software requirements early in the lifecycle and why this activity is crucial to ongoing software risk mitigationDevelopment of effective plans for identifying and reducing software risk during operations