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How we can help

We have a proven track record, so you don't have to just take our word for it

We find a better way
and make it happen

Brief:

During one of the most volatile times of the recent history in the upstream oil and gas industry we were approached to analyse how production data was being managed. With 50% of engineers having no confidence in the accuracy of production numbers and data typically stored in individual excel spreadsheets the problem was epidemic.

#1 Creating Subsurface Technical Guidance

Brief:

NDB was commissioned to create a system of technical guidance by a North Sea operator wanting to improve consistency and ensure more informed, quality decision making.

Methodology:

We were tasked to review all subsurface disciplines from geophysics to production engineering and identify best practice as well as more effective, integrated ways of working.

In response, we conducted a focused programme of research which covered, systematic interview, work sessions and detailed consultation with: internal subsurface technical staff, technical chiefs, external experts and key stakeholders across international offices.

Result/Impact:

The new set of technical guidance provided a wealth of benefits including, but not exclusive to: a framework for best practice, high level workflows, central hub for knowledge, improved risk management and resource mapping capability.

#2 Production Data -
The project that no one wanted to tackle!

Brief:

During one of the most volatile times of the recent history in the upstream oil and gas industry we were approached to be part of a technical team for a well known international client.  With 50% of engineers having no confidence in the accuracy of production numbers and data typically stored in individual excel spreadsheets the problem was epidemic. 

Methodology:

We were able to quickly make use of our developed tools and data to look at the production data management system (PDMS).  The resulting PDMS schematic was created showing the best dataflow solution for the client.  With reservoir and petroleum engineers as part of the team we could ensure credibility within the programme for change.

Result/Impact:

Our people and processes along with mentoring and training have been key to bringing about transformational change.  We created a common data store, automation of process and a scale change in reporting time, which has since enabled a real-time dashboard.  The time saved by each engineer was estimated at 20 days per year, a whole month of recovered time.

#3 Technical computing and how it can harness business efficiency

Brief:

Briefed by our client to put together a strategic view on how their technical computing might evolve to support their business objectives, we were tasked to review the market and provide a view on the solutions to evaluate. We were also asked to identify ways to leverage their movement into virtual desktop, off premises data rooms and cloud services.

Methodology:

Our approach was to create a vision, strategy, guiding principles, technical solutions for evaluation and a timetable for transition. We took on board their move to new premises, need to operate large datasets, multiple offices globally and the need for on demand flexible computing and enabling collaboration between technical teams. With expertise in global trends, knowledge in technical offerings and strong relationships with vendors we were well placed to meet the brief.

Result/Impact:

We developed a set of guiding principles that connected the vision to the initiatives required to meet the business goals across: collaboration among technical users and department, flexible computing resources, global growth across remote offices and leverage of new tech opportunities.  All solutions were implemented and continue to drive growth.

We believe our work is the best testament to our depth of specialist knowledge and domain expertise. Discover some of the projects that define us and the range of business impacts they deliver in the examples listed below:

#4 The Subsurface Application Benchmark

Brief:

Since 2011, as part of our recommendation, NDB and Aupec have collected data on subsurface application software used in the upstream oil and gas industry.  The Software Application Benchmark (SAB) created now informs industry wide on company transformational projects.

Methodology:

To create a strategic and high-level review, we recognised the need to understand software choices at their most granular level. To do this we realised the need to break down the technical disciplines and subsurface operations to benchmark each business area.

The benchmark covers three major areas (tools, data and support) across 35 participating companies to ensure accuracy and consistency in the confidential report produced.

Result/Impact:

As with any benchmark study the results provide many key learnings, to name a few:

  • Toolkit rationalisation –
    licence reduction

  • Standardisation opportunity –
    across assets and geographies

  • Optimisation –
    for toolset and data management

#5 Delivering E&P application rationalisation, workflows and best practice

Brief:

We were selected by a global operator to capture best practice from across their organisation and to examine the effectiveness of their technical software portfolio to assess whether it met the needs of the business.

Methodology:

We used our IP to develop a unique, pre-populated tool to fast track the start of the project. We then conducted interviews with key stakeholders, drawing themes from the information captured to faciliatet discussion amongst and between functions and assets to identify particular areas of best practice.

Our proven process and tools enabled us to visualise a consistent and in-depth internal view across disparate geographical sites. To measure against peer companies externally we referenced the Subsurface Applications Benchmark that we created with Aupec.

Result/Impact:

Cost savings - $3M year-on-year savings was the outcome of adopting our recommended changes to their technical software portfolio.

The process, outcomes and learnings provided the organisation a position of strength from which to negotiate with software vendors in the future.

#6 How effective is your Subsurface
Software Toolkit?

Brief:

We were engaged by a global operator to assess the effectiveness of their current technical software toolkit in order to understand where the tools were helping or hindering the work of the technical teams in delivering their objectives. More specifically we were tasked with identifying the opportunities for improvements in practice, workflow and technology.

Methodology:

With no blueprint for such a study, we took a deep dive, detailed approach.  Leaving no stone unturned we applied our technical and geoscience knowledge to conduct in depth interviews across all levels of the subsurface technical organisation.  We analysed all our findings in detail to provide solid recommendations for improving practice, workflow and technology.

Result/Impact:

The study uncovered both areas of previously unknown weakness and concern, as well as highlighting areas of strength.  Based on our recommendations a series of improvement projects were then incorporated within a wider transformation programme, whilst the highlighted areas of best practice were cascaded to all other relevant parts of the business.

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