The Role of Technology and Decision Analysis in Reservoir Management

Abstract

Summary The need to enhance recovery from the vast amount of remaining oil- and gas-in-place requires better reservoir management practices. Proper timing has a profound effect on the implementation of sound reservoir management technology on recovery efficiency. With this in mind, our goal should be to maximize volumetric sweep early in the project’s life. Trying to squeeze more oil from marginal projects will generally yield marginal to average results. The purpose of this paper is to identify the major attributes of a successful reservoir management organization and program and outline critical reservoir management issues and technical areas, and document benefits received from a team approach to reservoir management. In addition, the decision analysis technique is used to look at value creation as a result of reservoir management activities. Any development of new reservoir management technology and its applications must be subjected to thorough economic screening so that use and support of such technology is justified based upon business needs.