Summary
Advanced collaborative environments (ACEs) were planned as an integral part
of the operator's new Aberdeen office. The move in early 2008 coincided with a
major business reorganization that prompted a critical reassessment of their
scope and functionality. The selected approach is well suited to operations in
a mature area. During the pilot project, three ACE implementation types were
tested. One of these provided dedicated data feeds and visualization tools
within the normal work area, operating only during normal working hours. The
other two were (1) an asset-based, on-site, round-the-clock type and (2) an
outsourced model, each representing a business-model extreme. The selected
configuration was closest to the first of these models, with careful provision
for future growth.
The results of the pilot studies supported the business case but suggested
that the realization of many of the benefits would hinge on attitudes,
behaviors, and working practices. It was concluded that steady growth, based on
demand and keeping pace with the changing habits, would give the best return.
Detailed plans were created for each of the people, process, technology,
environment, and organization components of the operator's ACE model. The new
building design and layout has greatly enhanced the overall working
environment. Other activities included the upgrading of fiber links, the
introduction of an operability laboratory to test the compatibility of data
feeds and systems, extensive human-factor studies, contract reassessment, and
the introduction of a dedicated ACE support team. By June 2008, seven rigs were
being supported simultaneously, including monitoring the progress of a
wired-pipe trial in Trinidad. All this has been achieved during a period of
outstanding drilling-and-completions (D&Cs) performance. This measured
approach has delivered results, helping to win hearts and minds while avoiding
overstretching resources. The paper includes details of the pilot project,
implementation, and the progress and challenges to date.
© 2011. Society of Petroleum Engineers
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History
- Original manuscript received:
12 September 2009
- Meeting paper published:
9 September 2009
- Revised manuscript received:
12 June 2010
- Manuscript approved:
13 October 2010
- Published online:
7 April 2011
- Version of record:
7 April 2011
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