Implementation of an Automated Production Geology System at Shell International

Hans Teske, Mary Pearson

Technological advances in geologic interpretation have been achieved in varying degrees over the past several years, especially in exploration but also beginning in production divisions. In the mid-1980s, Shell International began formulating plans to offer GIPSIE as a completely integrated and interactive graphic method of performing geologic interpretation in production geology divisions. This integrated computer system, which combines Intergraph's GIPSIE and Radian Corporation's CPS-1 with Shell proprietary software, is designed to simulate traditional manual methods in order to improve accuracy and consistency of interpretations, provide for multiple alternative interpretations in less time, and produce drawings meeting higher standards for presentation purposes.

The implementation efforts consist of training, consultation, and support provided not only to the end-user geologists but also to system managers and those responsible for loading and maintaining project data bases at each site. Proper training at all three levels is necessary to ensure optimum productivity gains. In remote locations especially, there is a clear benefit of self-sufficiency (in hardware and software applications).

This presentation looks at the implementation efforts Shell has undertaken thus far and describes how much training is necessary, how long it takes for geologist to become productive in the new environment, how long it takes to establish a typical project data base, and the productivity benefits that have been realized to date.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91022©1989 AAPG Annual Convention, April 23-26, 1989, San Antonio, Texas.