ABSTRACT: Realising the benefits of integrated information management

Binks, Craig , P.T. Geoservices - Kestrel Information Management, Jakarta, Indonesia

The oil and gas industry has traditionally separated the disciplines of data management and records management into two distinct functions under separate departmental umbrellas. Data remains the responsibility of the technical departments and other information is managed by a number of different departments dispersed throughout the organisation.

In fact the average explorationist spends as much as "50%" of their time handling non-technical information as they do with technical data.

The benefits of adopting an integrated approach to the handling of technical data and non-technical records can lead to substantial savings in costs, productivity, resourcing and decreased business risk.

Technology is often seen as an instant digital cure to information management problems, being implemented as a means of "fire fighting" particular problem areas. This approach not only limits the scope of potential benefits afforded by new technology but also transfers the causes of the problem into a different environment (digital rather than hardcopy).

An integrated approach to information management allows a company to move towards new, emerging technologies such as EDMS and on-line data delivery from a solid foundation of sound Information Management practices across the entire organization.

In addition, defining corporate policies, procedures and standards for Information Management ensures clear definition of responsibilities and accountability for information assets throughout their lifecycle.

The paper will be illustrated with examples from oil companies in Indonesia and other countries where Kestrel have implemented integrated Information Management concepts.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90913©2000 AAPG International Conference and Exhibition, Bali, Indonesia