SCHNEIDER, JR., LOUIS I., International Association of Geophysical Contractors, Houston, TX

ABSTRACT: Geophysical Contracting: Coping with the Economic Realities of the 1990s

During the 1990s, the geophysical contracting industry faces a variety of global operational and administrative challenges made more complicated by a sustained climate of low crude oil and natural gas prices. Economic survival and future growth of individual contractors depends on their ability to maintain optimum operating efficiencies, contain overhead and provide state-of-the-art technology, all while demonstrating the highest level of workplace safety and environmental protection. Coupled with these requirements, the successful contractors must possess considerable market "savvy" in adapting to the unique operating conditions that each governmental or geographic location contains (i.e., laws, regulations, customs and permitting restrictions). Clearly today's geophysical contractor bear little resemblance to those of the past and, without question, the future cannot help but bring about greater change. Only those companies with the commitment, management control and flexibility to meet these challenges will be able to capitalize on the business opportunities that lie ahead.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90988©1993 AAPG/SVG International Congress and Exhibition, Caracas, Venezuela, March 14-17, 1993.