The Online Mapping Revolution: Using Free and Open-Source Geospatial Workflows to Keep Multidisciplinary Teams Working Together and In-Sync

Abstract

A revolution in online toolsets and free GIS software makes spatial management easy and inexpensive. Open-source geospatial intelligence tools and workflows, combined with online GIS delivery, can lead to operational efficiencies without investment in expensive technology. Finally, spatial data generated by geology, land and engineering can be used in the field and in real time. Exploration and development can be challenging in an environment with preexisting units, dense housing, and environmentally sensitive areas. We have used geospatial workflows to identify opportunities and efficiently manage data in several large plays including the Marcellus in Pennsylvania and West Virginia and the Bakken/Three Forks Play of North Dakota. We have found this workflow allows us to control directly landmen on the ground, without the overhead associated with large contract land teams. We use a small area of the Collingwood Play in Michigan as an example of how we use GIS, remote sensing, and spatial analysis in a multidisciplinary team environment. We also show how using geospatial workflow can be used to identify undrilled units in the Bakken. In the exploration phase, a live multi-author online mapping system is used to share information and as a command and control tool to keep operations slim and targeted. The land department maintains prospect vital information and status. Engineering and environmental compliance ensures that land is not operating in “no-go” zones identified as locations unlikely for drilling success or environmentally sensitive. Geology regularly contributes updates to maximum leasing top bonus price. Additionally, geology can create geology “no-go” zones where wells are unlikely to be successful. Real-time data prevents land from “getting ahead” of the geology and facilitates pivots as new information becomes available. The key to a successful implementation of this toolset is detailed workflows and data management. Spatial analysis workflows can work off existing rule-based regulations and contracts to automatically identify areas with regulatory sensitivity. The repeated application of geologic and economic workflows can create spatial “economic areas” under multiple price decks. When combined and displayed on a map, teams can be empowered to operate with fewer people and with greater efficiency while strategic decision makers can target resources.

AAPG Datapages/Search and Discovery Article #90259 ©2016 AAPG Annual Convention and Exhibition, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, June 19-22, 2016