Work-Flow Automation Enhances Job Performance and Improves Job-Execution Data

Abstract

Summary We designed and implemented a work-flow automation system to automate the flow of operational data throughout a servicing operation. Work-flow automation enables well-service personnel who are rarely network-connected to access information systems containing updated job requirements and well data. As the service personnel perform their work, data from the job are stored on a personal computer by use of store-and-forward architecture. Once the computer connects to the wide area network (WAN), job data are forwarded to the service-center operations systems. Copies of these data also can be forwarded to the customer to demonstrate enhanced value or to track cost. In this pilot implementation, we decreased the number of paper forms substantially, increased the quality of data collection, distributed updates to the system to the field easily, and relayed key data to the customer quickly. This paper documents the pilot implementation of this system and the lessons learned from its implementation.