Abstract The popularity of Laptop computers has dramatically increased because of their portability, low cost and increasing competitiveness with Workstations and mini-computers performance. As a result, many organizations are beginning to migrate their engineering applications to Laptop Computers. In 1994 Schlumberger Dowell started to migrate the full suite of mini-computer based CADE (Computer Aided Design and Evaluation) applications to Laptop computers. This paper chronicles the issues faced and resolved during the successful migration of the software. Introduction Over a period of 10 years, Dowell had developed 6 CADE (Computer Aided Design and Evaluation) software products, consisting of approximately 650 thousand lines of code (KLOC), which resided on VAX/VMS systems. A need was identified to quickly and economically move this software to a fast and portable computer platform. The company has made 4 major transitions since 1975 (General Electric Time Sharing to Honeywell 6000 to IBM 4341 to VAX/VMS). The last phase has lasted 10 years. The objective of this project was to migrate the CADE software to a laptop computer as quickly and economically as possible. The resulting system was required by the customer to work on a typical 1994 laptop computer configuration, i.e., a PC with a 486 - 33 MHz processor with 8 MB of RAM and less than 50 MB of free disk space. This paper describes the experiences encountered and the solutions used during the migration effort. The pre-migration status, the feasibility study prior to migration and a description of the actual development phase are covered. The section on the feasibility phase gives the details on how third party software was selected. The paper concludes with a postmortem of the project and a summary of the lessons learned. Historical Background The CADE software is a suite of computer applications for designing and evaluating the various services provided by an oilfield service pumping company. These services include hydraulic fracturing, matrix acidizing, coiled tubing, cementing and sand control. The software was developed using Ada, Fortran and C languages. About 70% (450 KLOC) of the product was developed in Ada and approximately 30% (200 KLOC) in Fortran with only a trace of C. Fortran was used exclusively for numerical calculations, while Ada was used for the Human Interface and the remainder of the numerical calculations. Ada was the predominant language because of its strong data typing, information hiding and generic template features which made the source code easy to maintain. Ada also helped to minimize the most common programming errors made using the more prevalent mainstream languages. The original CADE software was developed for use on the DEC MicroVAX II mini-computer. More than 200 of these mini-computer machines are networked together around the world using the company's worldwide network. At the introduction of the CADE software in 1985, the mini-computer offered a significant performance improvement over the previously used time sharing computing facility. The mini-computers also allowed the software to be used in remote locations where low telephone communication quality had precluded connection to the time sharing computer. User Survey. A survey of the CADE user community was conducted in late 1992 to determine user satisfaction and the direction of future development. The user response was considered excellent at 59%, with 71 of a total 120 questionnaires being returned. The survey contained questions about the user profile and specific issues regarding the various products. P. 157

Abstract In developing mission-critical, real-time applications, the authors have found historical testing methods to be inadequate for personal computers (PC's). A major problem is the myth of "PC compatibility"; i.e. the notion that all PC's are interchangeable and function independently of the software. The authors propose that the interactions between PC hardware and software are extensive and complex, and require that system specification and testing be modified to include integrated hardware/software testing. Introduction One of the primary reasons for the widespread use of the personal computer in commercial applications has been the openness of the system, allowing many competing vendors to develop hardware and software components. This competition has produced surprisingly rapid advances in computer technology and in system capabilities. However, the main goal of application developers continues to be producing applications that are usable, reliable and cost-effective, both to develop and to support. The historical approach to application development has included independently specifying and testing the hardware and software components of the system. This has proven to be inadequate for mission-critical PC applications, due in large part to the fact that modern PC's are high-performance machines containing an array of specialized components. The open architecture of the PC, compared to the previous closed (proprietary) designs, creates the situation where each of these hardware and software components can come from multiple, independent sources, resulting in a neverending stream of possible combinations. The differences between PC's and the complex interactions between the software and various hardware components requires that specification and test procedures be modified to include rigorous testing of all hardware/software combinations. In addition, due to the continuing evolution and changes in PC hardware and in software development tools, these test procedures must continue in some form throughout the product's life cycle. This paper describes the authors' experience in developing and distributing PC-based applications, emphasizing practical solutions and anticipated future improvements. Impact of the Compatibility Problem The industry relies on personal computers to provide data acquisition, increases in personal productivity, and assistance with data analysis. We are increasingly dependent on these devices and their associated software. We have all been faced with mixed emotions when upgrading our personal computers to either new operating systems, new hardware or both. We welcome the prospects of an analysis taking 20 to 50% less time and in some cases doing things not possible at all a few years ago without massive investments in workstations, mainframes and specialized training. However, will our old applications still function in a predictable manner? Will we spend weeks on the phone in non productive time in an attempt to contact a living and knowledgeable technical support staff member or be relegated to a combination of voice and fax back hell? If the personal computer industry can build a device that operates 2500 percent faster than the original IBM PC, why can't all my applications still work? Sadly, the true answer is that computers do provide the desired benefits only after a start up learning curve. The game, therefore, becomes an effort to reduce this learning curve to a minimum, searching for the quickest answer to the question "The hardware has changed again; does everything still work?". P. 129

Abstract This paper presents a new parallel ILU preconditioner. It is based on the technique of Sequential Staging of Tasks (SST) which overcomes the difficulty of recursiveness arising from ILU factorization. This new parallel ILU preconditioner is easy to reconstruct from the sequential version. The only requirement is to insert the synchronization codes of stages of tasks into the sequential version, and any other modifications to the original serial codes are not needed. The characteristic of matching various ordering schemes is still maintained, and the new merit of handling different numbers of processors is obtained. Numerical results were obtained using a thermal model with different grid system. The parallel speedup is satisfactory. Introduction Simulation of thermal recovery processes using a fully implicit treatment of component concentrations, phase saturations, pressure and temperature requires solution of large systems of linear equations. Currently, the most robust techniques for solving this large system of linear equations are preconditioned conjugate gradient like methods such as ORTHOMIN which is widely used in traditional solvers for sequential computers. The major computation of ORTHOMIN is vector inner product and is easy to be paralleled. However, the most robust preconditioners such as ILU factorization and nested factorization are not suitable for parallel computer because of their intrinsical recursiveness. It is difficult to parallel ILU preconditioner directly. At present, the general methods to parallel preconditioners are the use of new preconditioning methods such as parallel nested factorization preconditioning. These new preconditioning methods have high parallel efficiency in parallel computers, but also have limitations: limited types of ordering schemes; comprehensive modifications of the sequential codes; slow convergence. This paper presents a new parallel ILU preconditioner based on the technique of Sequential Staging of Tasks (SST). Using the SST technique, the new preconditioner exploits the small scale parallelism of ILU factorizations, and achieves a temporal, larger scale parallelism within certain computing domain, consequently obtains an applicable parallel preconditioner. The new parallel preconditioner maintains all the characteristics of the sequential version, and is easy to reconstruct from the sequential version. The new preconditioner is applicable to computers with different number of processors. The numerical experiments show that the parallel speedup is satisfactory. On an NP 1/52 Mini-Supercomputer System (produced by GOULD Co. in 1989, shared main memory, symmetrical operation system UTX/32) with two processors, the parallel speedup is 1.85. ILU factorization Consider the linear system, Ax=b As a preconditioner of ORTHOMIN, ILU factorization provides a matrix M, a "good" approximation to coefficient matrix A and easy to factor, convergence may be accelerated by solving the equivalent system, [M1A]x=M1b Such preconditionings should offset the added cost of factoring M and performing a forward and back solution with each matrix-vector multiplication by reducing the number of iterations substantially. Main stages of ILU factorization are as follow: A symbolic factorization, defining the non-zero structure of the incomplete factorization. For k=l, NB Do Inverting the main elements (1) P. 135

SPE Member Abstract Write a comprehensive training manual on a technical oilfield subject, print it, and send it around the world. Six months later only a few individuals have taken the time to review, much less study the contents. Write an interactive, interesting computer program, put it on the company BBS system, and before long, every PC in the company has a copy. Computer interactive training has been common place for years, but generally its focus is training on computer software. This paper describes a PC-based program that facilities the study and training of technical or company-related information via interactive computer operation. The program is versatile, compatible with any level of PC hardware, and easily updated. The program prompts answers to multiple choice questions about the technical information. To prevent memorization of the questions and answers, each training session consists of answering 25 questions randomly selected from a pool of 200 questions. This approach provides the student with multiple training sessions with minimal duplication This paper describes the methodology and application of this type of computerized training. An explanation of the programming logic and an example of a sample session is provided Introduction Every company or organization has a continuing need to train its employees. The extent of the training depends on the particular industry and the associated technology. This is especially true in the petroleum service industry. The students vary in knowledge and experience, from the newly hired equipment operator to the veteran service supervisor. Continuing education is especially important and difficult in a large multinational service organization. While the overall content of the subject may be similar, individual geographical and political differences may require customizing of the course curriculum for the area. The training method must be versatile, accessible, and motivational. A variety of formats is available but due to the interest in and availability of personal computers, PC's were a logical mode to facilitate training. Written booklets and study guides have been used, but have limitations as to flexibility and timeliness. A system was needed that would allow each individual to study at his own pace, and provide the necessary evaluation and feedback to be effective. PROGRAM PLAN A plan was developed that uses IBM compatible personal computers (PC's) as the vehicle of instruction. P. 97

Abstract The Integrated Drilling System (IDS) is based on a computer network that interconnects all drilling machinery and sensors to a distributed supervisory and control concept. This has been used to implement automated operations and full remote control from a central control room, with multimedia technology utilised for the man-machine interface. Introduction The Integrated Drilling System is a result of a comprehensive five-year R & D programme and is a technical breakthrough with regard to remote control and automation of drilling operations. Esso initiated the IDS programme in 1990, and has provided the bulk of the USD 9.5 million invested in the project. RF-Rogaland Research with its drilling facility, Ullrigg, has been the main contractor. Hitec and Smedvig Offshore Europe have been involved in the development of the IDS, and both companies have played a vital role in developing the system into a commercial product. All companies are based in Stavanger Norway. In developing the IDS, we have been concerned with two main challenges - increased safety on the drill floor and cost reduction through better planning and execution of the drilling process. Compared with the onshore industry, today's drilling rigs have only a limited degree of automation. Although computers have been introduced in isolated networks, it's full potential has not been utilised. The IDS takes full advantage of modern computer technology from supervision and control to automation of processes. Background Information Management The decentralisation and diffusion of the primary wellsite responsibilities has in most cases reduced the driller to a basic drilling mechanic. P. 45

Abstract This case study of a PC-DOS/Mainframe system highlights a unique method to reduce the dependence on the Mainframe Computer System by individuals preparing written engineering proposals for prospective customers. With the development and implementation of the Engineering Proposal System (EPS), data storage and remote communications are now the only two functions processed by the mainframe computer. Two key areas for success were user involvement and proper training. While most of the individuals preparing the proposals had worked on the mainframe for some period of time, very few had worked on PC's. An EPS users' group was established to bring together the needs of the end user and the needs of the programmers. This group remains active in enhancing and troubleshooting the current system. The problems involved with a totally dependent mainframe system, as well as communications problems experienced with remote locations, are discussed herein. Satellite and phone modem communications are also briefly discussed. Several hardware configurations were necessary to respond to various needs created by the engineers location and working environment. The existing PC system, its components and the method used to automatically combine all the components into a high quality end product are covered here. Since this is a case study, all aspects of the product experience are explored. Introduction The Western Company's EPS is a series of programs and utilities used by the technical sales engineers to prepare a design proposal containing all the necessary information required by a prospective customer. EPS includes modules to present 1) customer information, 2) well data, 3) reservoir parameters, 4) proposed treatment and procedures, 5) calculations, 6) graphs and 7) job costs. All components of this system are internally linked together allowing information to be shared throughout related modules. Pricing is automatically calculated once the treatment is entered to the system. Quickly, a completed document can be sent to a local or remote printer. The Western Company's Information Services Department already had developed a Mainframe system that accomplished the above mentioned functions. This successful system had the following disadvantages due to its mainframe dependency: Suspension of the proposal writing process when the Mainframe was disabled Slow response time Low quality dot matrix printed output The time savings for the users and the laser quality presentation of the output would justify the total capital expenditure of the project. In 1989, the project was approved. P. 355^

Abstract Rapid, major advances over the past 20 years in computing capability and the ability to manage information have significantly affected the work of the practicing petroleum engineer. To document the effects of these changes in the workplace, we have conducted a survey of how engineers use computers on the job. Using the results of this survey, we make recommendations concerning the ways in which undergraduate engineering programs should approach computers and computing in the curriculum. The paper also includes a general discussion of why and how computers should be included in undergraduate programs. One reason computer use should be included in the curriculum is to prepare students better for the workplace. Despite the wealth of evidence that indicates engineers use computers on the job, general information about the actual ways in which computers are used is not available. The survey described in this paper provides a broad, qualitative look at how engineers use computers at work. Moreover, the survey records the opinions of practicing engineers concerning how well their undergraduate education prepared them for computer use. In addition to the survey results and interpretation, the paper includes interviews and a literature review from engineering education. The survey, interviews, and literature review will be synthesized to provide an explanation of how engineers use computers in the workplace and what implications this use has for undergraduate education. Examples are given from specific curriculum changes under consideration at LSU. Introduction For quite some time, engineering educators have sought to close the gap between the amount and type of computer expertise that undergraduates are given at the university and that which those students will need on the job (for an example, see Kimel and Monsees, 1979). P. 95^

Introduction Software licenses are the foundation for building win-win relationships between software vendors and clients. The basis for a good contract is that it is beneficial to both parties. A good foundation will cement the responsibilities and obligations of the parties after areas of agreement has been negotiated. Unfortunately, software licenses do not always reflect what is best for all. Some clauses are definitely for the benefit of the vendor while others are required by a prudent client. The resulting contract is then a matter of reasonable compromise to achieve a good business relationship. Major issues of warranty, liability, training, support, and payment may be in conflict. Topics such as maintenance, testing, patents, extent of use, and return of software are often overlooked or addressed unevenly. Application Legal counsel should always be consulted before signing a software contract. During negotiations all parties benefit from a practical working knowledge of what must be included in the agreement. An understanding of the consequences of certain legal phrases is also of value. Better understanding of the viewpoints of both vendor and client results in a better working relationship. Discussion The first item of discussion for a software client must obviously be, "What are we getting for our money?' In a legal sense we are not usually buying" a computer program. If something is "owned" then the has the full rights to do with the asset as they wish: modify it, sell it, or give it away. In the computer software industry we are usually purchasing is a license to use the computer software. If the agreement's term is limited in time we commonly refer to the license as a lease. If the term is open, we should commonly call the agreement a perpetual license. The major difference is the term of the agreement and the agreed action on termination. The important factor is that for both types of licenses the software remains the property of the vendor. Since it is the vendor's property, the client may use it only under the conditions agreed upon in the license. There is another common type of software agreement in the petroleum industry: a joint industry project where a major deliverable is software. In this type of agreement a research organization, either a private firm or a university allied organization, agrees to perform specified research under the joint funding of an industry group. All results of the research, research reports, and computer software, usually belong to the industry group. Any restrictions specified in the agreement most often deal with confidentiality. This type of agreement is different in that at the beginning of the project no assets exist. P. 331^

Abstract We have designed, implemented. and are running a corporate-wide distributed processing batch queue on a large number of networked workstations using the UNIX operating system. Atlas Wireline researchers and scientists have used the system for over a year. The large increase in available computer power has greatly reduced the time required for nuclear and electromagnetic tool modeling. Use of remote distributed computing has simultaneously reduced computation costs and increased usable computer time. The system integrates equipment from different manufacturers, using various CPU architectures, distinct operating system revisions, and even multiple processors per machine. Various differences between the machines have to be accounted for in the master scheduler. These differences include shells, command sets, swap spaces. memory sizes, CPU sizes. and OS revision levels. Remote processing across a network must be performed in a manner that is seamless from the users' perspective. The system currently uses IBM RISC System/6000, SPARCstation, HP9000s 700, HP9000s 800, and DEC Alpha AXP machines. Each CPU in the network has its own speed rating, allowed working hours, and workload parameters. The system is designed so that all of)he computers in the network can be optimally scheduled without adversely impacting the primary users of the machines. The increase in the total usable computational capacity by means of distributed batch computing can change corporate computing strategy. The integration of disparate computer platforms eliminates the need to buy one type of computer for computations. another for graphics. and yet another for day-to-day operations. It might be possible. for example. to meet all research and engineering computing needs with existing networked computers. It may, on the other hand. be advantageous to buy more powerful computers than required for a particular application. so that extra capacity can be applied to other problems by means of the batch scheduler. Introduction The scientific computing environment has changed significantly in the past few years. Desktop workstations available today are more powerful and far less expensive than super computers used a few years ago. This made complex numerical calculations and computer simulations both feasible and affordable for many users. With the continuing increase in processing speed and decline in price of workstations. tremendous computing power can be obtained with a relatively small investment. UNIX workstations are also used for nonscientific purposes such as computer-aided drafting, engineering design. accounting, sales, and desktop publishing. While many of these computers are fully utilized during the day, they sit idle during the night, weekends, and holidays. P. 391^

Abstract All current high performance computing platforms utilize parallel processing technology, with system sizes ranging from less than ten to a few thousand powerful processors. Geophysical computational tasks are now almost invariably 3D, from the processing of 3D seismic surveys to the modeling of wireline logging measurements. This paper reviews the computational challenges presented by 3D geophysics and describes the results that we have achieved using highly parallel systems. Because 3D structures are inherently more complex than 2D structures, realizing the full benefits of high performance systems requires ever more sophisticated visualization and model construction tools. We briefly review work on employing highly parallel systems in support of such tasks. Introduction High performance computing platforms are embracing parallelism with increasing numbers of powerful processors. The scientific novelty of moderately to massively parallel machines is disappearing, and there is growing evidence that they will be applied more routinely to a broad range of scientific and engineering applications. Most major computer vendors have already announced that they will offer, in the 1995-96 time frame, the first generation of machines with peak TFlop/s (10 to the 12th floating point operations per second) performance at prices that will be within a factor of two of today's largest machines. By the mid 1990s, we expect to see practical TFlop/s performance reported for several applications. Given that 10 GFlop/s (10x10 9 floating point operations per second) performance is considered current state-of-the-art, we are thus expecting a 100-fold increase over the next few years. This technology, along with advances in network communication speeds and data visualization, opens up opportunities for increased productivity and technical advancement. For the past three years, we have been experimenting with parallel computation, mainly on the CM-2. A significant result was the commercial introduction of 3D one-pass depth and time migration software on the CM-2 in May 1991. This machine has recently been replaced with the next generation computer, a CM-5 with 128 processors, from the same vendor. This configuration is powerful enough to support the introduction of new seismic processing services, and the flexibility of the CM-5 architecture offers significant 3D simulation capabilities for many applications. In this paper we discuss several geophysical applications amenable to parallel computing. We describe our experience and present specific results on computational performance. We also furnish performance extrapolations for those cases in which reasonable assumptions can be made. Significant technology trends that are motivating our efforts are: * The first TFlop/s (peak) machines will appear by the middle of the decade. Practical performance for these machines will likely reach 400 to 500 GFlop/s and higher for some applications. Later in the decade we will see the first reports of sustained Tera Flop/sperformance. This technology has strong implications for seismic prospecting and reservoir monitoring, as well as many kinds of numerical simulation. * The cost/performance of these machines will continue to drop markedly. P. 115^

Abstract Field automation systems provide an enormous amount of information. In older existing systems, this information is presented to the field staff as text. Significant improvements in the staffs effectiveness and efficiency can be achieved by utilizing a Graphical User Interface. However, quantifying these improvements is a difficult task. Introduction Field automation systems have been utilized in domestic oil and gas fields since the 1960's. These systems are typically referred to as Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems. Each consists of a host computer, communications equipment, and Remote Terminal Units (RTUs). The host computer, located at the field office, collects data from RTUs, processes the data into information, and provides that information to field operators via terminals and printers. Typical data collected from the RTUs consists of pressures, temperatures, flowrates, volumes, and various physical states. The predominate mode of communications between the host computer and RTUs is via radio at 600 to 2400 baud. The RTUs, most of which are solar powered, are located at the well or facility and serve as the collection point for the various sensing devices. Systems range considerably in size and can incorporate up to several hundred RTUs. SCADA systems are an integral part of operating a field. For example, the system is used to identify possible environmental and safety problems such as spills and leaks, and has the capability to shut down a well or facility. In addition, the system is used to identify abnormally low production and off-production wells, automatically schedule and complete well tests, and control production to match delivery requirements. Finally, the system eliminates unnecessary trips to remote facilities by the field staff just to "check-it out." Unfortunately, the vast majority of users are required to interact with our company's field automation systems through a text-based, keyboard-driven interface. This results in underutilization of the systems since many users have difficulty in quickly discerning useful information from a screen or, in some cases, multiple screens of text. Vendor developed plant automation systems addressed this same limitation many years ago by utilizing a Graphical User Interface (GUI) instead of text as the primary user interface. P. 125^

Abstract Providing technical training is necessary to all companies. Whether the training is for new employees or new material for established employees, the most effective training tools are those that provide "hands-on" experience and immediate feed back. Microcomputers have provided a platform for training programs which allow simulations of physical or mathematical problems. With video and sound capabilities these programs can include realistic pictures and entertaining segments. Programs can be designed primarily to be used by one person or by several people, each working on different aspects of a problem. These teaching tools can also be straight forward going directly through logical steps or be structured to provide decision branches to allow users to investigate how different paths solve a problem. The software can be designed to evaluate solutions by the "correctness" of the result obtained and resources (time and cost) to achieve the given result. Authoring languages offer programmers an environment for developing a structure of paths for a learning program. Interactive screens are then defined and conditions set to take users along each path. Using an authoring language, programs can be quickly written. This paper outlines how an authoring language can be used to develop teaching tools. An example is presented showing how a training need goes from suggestion to finished product. The example used is a training program for PLANIMETER, a software program for computing reserves from isopach maps. This program is designed for geologists, petroleum engineers, and technicians. The paper outlines how the learning goals are organized into a program structure. Screens can then be created by a variety of methods: scanning images, creating graphs, and displaying text. The example utilizes Quest, an authoring language from Allen Communications in Salt Lake City, Utah. Once screens are defined the user response and interface are added. The example will outline the general procedure for developing a learning tool using an authoring language. Introduction Although computer based training (CBT) programs have been implemented on a variety of computers, readily accessible personal computers offer an ideal environment to oil and gas companies. Computer based training is cost effective compared to classroom instruction when a large number of people need to be trained (especially when the training is done routinely such as instructions for new employees), when the people to be trained are spread out geographically, when the training material will need to be reviewed periodically, and when computer reference simulations enhance classroom instruction. The bulk of cost for CBT programs is in the development of the learning program. This includes identifying the training need, designing the program, writing and testing the program, and evaluating the program's effectiveness as a training tool. The cost saving is in reducing travel time for students to attend classes and learning time as students can learn at their own pace between other duties. Additionally, substantial savings in instructor and classroom costs can be achieved with CBT. P. 129^

Abstract Since the publication of Fracturing Process Control and Automation Phase 1 (SPE 17315), the entire automated and remote controlled fracture stimulation system has been placed into production globally with hundreds of jobs successfully accomplished and documented. Phase 1 presented the organizational approach to creating the system. Mechanical equipment, computing equipment and software, operating procedures, and documentation requirements were also discussed in the first paper. Phase 2 of the project involved: a new design concept for a slurry processor, creating software for the central computer in the control and engineering center, and improving the proppant handling equipment. In addition, fluid monitoring systems were developed. This paper will present the unified automatic fracturing process control system. Comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of automated, semi-automated, and manual systems will be made. The management task for technology transfer from dedicated design team to design and manufacturing staff and from prototype to full production equipment will be examined. Introduction Large fracture stimulation treatments involve a large commitment of resources including personnel, equipment, and time. To get the best results, many operations have to coincide. Traditionally, a frac operator monitored pressure, flow rate, and proppant concentration. If changes were required, verbal instructions were relayed by radio to operators on the various pieces of manually controlled equipment. In 1986, a study was made to determine market needs for fracture stimulation equipment. In-house surveys of field operations, customer surveys, and equipment design surveys revealed the need for improved quality control of the on-site blending process and for better documentation of the treatments. As noted in SPE 17315, "General design goals for the project to automate and remotely control the fracturing process were to (1) improve execution of complex job design, (2) significantly improve quality control of chemical blends, (3) reduce operational cost, (4) improve safety, (5) provide for changes in job design during progress of the operation, and (6) improve documentation of the processes." The expertise needed to meet the above-mentioned design goals was in place, but fragmented. P. 43^

Abstract Hydraulic fracturing treatments require measurement of numerous parameters including surface rates and pressures to quantify the fluids, proppant and additives being utilized. Computers are used to acquire data for the purpose of calculating bottomhole pressure, compiling quality control data, generating diagnostic plots and, on occasion, for modelling fracture geometry in real-time. In the recent past, modems have been routinely utilized in conjunction with cellular phone systems to transmit field monitored data to a remote office. More recently, this data has been used at the remote site to perform 3-D fracture modelling for design verification and adjustment. A description of the data transmission technology is presented and a discussion of the related cost and reliability made. A field example is provided which involves the use of real-time 3-D analysis at the remote location. Remote transmission of data offers a major benefit to operators by providing the ability to monitor treatments and communicate requests or queries over the phone during the execution of a job. Since reports and pertinent job information are immediately available at the remote location, it is possible to perform more sophisticated real-time analyses at a lower cost. In the past, remote transmission of data has not been practical due to the related cost and technological difficulties. Recent advances in technology, such as the wide availability of cellular phone coverage, however, have made it both cost effective and reliable. Although the frequency of "noise" and lost connections is typically low, these problems can be handled by implementing an error correction/recovery scheme. This technique ensures a continuous flow of information. Introduction Computers have been utilized for real-time monitoring of fracturing treatments for many years. However, routine use of remote monitoring only started in 1991, and remote use of 3-D modelling started in 1992. During the past decade, remote transmission of data using a satellite link has been performed. However, it did not become a routine practice due to cost and technical factors. P. 51^

Abstract The Public Petroleum Data Model (PPDM) is a non proprietary data model that is designed for the oil industry to store, retrieve and process computer information more efficiently through standardization. Last year's paper (SPE26237) outlined the PPDM organization and modeling concepts. This paper discusses the past year's experience with the model in several areas: successes and problems encountered trying to implement the model, how various companies are using the model, to what extent integration is being achieved between exploratory and engineering information, and the progress achieved toward having one common model for the industry. PPDM PPDM was born in 1988. It was the brainchild of Gulf Canada Resources Limited, working in cooperation with Applied Terravision Systems Inc (ATS), Finder Graphics Systems Inc. (Geoquest Systems) and Digitech Information Services Ltd. The primary goal of this consortium was to develop a replacement for Gulfs obsolete computer system used for seismic processing and mapping. The secondary goal was to develop a replacement using a database model that was functional and relevant to petroleum needs, and ultimately to place this model in the public domain, which occurred in 1990. In 1991, ownership of the PPDM was transferred from the consortium to an independent, non-profit association that recognizes the data model as a formal entity. The PPDM Association's mandate is to evolve a vendor independent data model and to encourage development of compliant software applications and services in order to reduce user/supplier costs and improve the effectiveness of petroleum information technology. PPDM is largely a volunteer effort. Today, more than 70 petroleum concerns have joined the association, representing multinational oil and gas companies, data vendors, software/hardware vendors, government agencies and special interest groups (appendix1).

Abstract The current, rapid growth in the use of global networking promises to have an important impact on the way that all professionals, including petroleum engineers, do their work. Currently, this networking activity is embodied in a facility called the Internet. The Internet now consists of more than 1,000,000 computers (hosts), worldwide, connected by a variety of transmission media. Through this facility, professionals can communicate with colleagues by electronic mail, can have access to a massive collection of programs and data, can participate in special-interest discussion groups chosen from thousands available and may eventually receive many of their professional journals in an electronic form. It is the thesis of this paper that these resources will cause a qualitative change in the way petroleum engineers plan, organize and conduct their work. The Internet could even change the way petroleum companies structure their engineering organizations. This paper examines the structure of the Internet, details the resources currently available through it and attempts to project the impact of global networking on the lives of working petroleum engineers. Introduction Today, a revolution is taking place that is going to profoundly change the way we do our work. Further, this revolution will ultimately modify the way our children learn, where we live, and the fundamental nature of our profession. As strong as it is, it is becoming clear that the term "revolution" is appropriate to what is happening in the professional world. In the past, the development of a single, global and reliable telephone network caused major changes in the way petroleum companies were organized and operated. Now, the development of a single, global and reliable computer network could cause changes of a similar magnitude. Certainly, most major companies have their internal networks. The difference, a qualitative one, is broad connectivity. Engineers are going to have ready access not only to people in their own company but to people in almost every university, company, and government agency throughout the world. The network under discussion is actually a collection of networks referred to as the Internet. The Internet began as a project sponsored by the Advanced Research Projects Agency of the United States Department of Defense. Initially supporting only a few privileged researchers, the Internet has recently achieved the global reach and intense interest of professionals that suggests that petroleum engineers should be aware of its structure and potential. P. 145^

Abstract Information from well logs is invaluable to the oil industry. However, only a limited number of people are able to fully utilize their logs by applying modem analysis techniques. Part of the limitation stems from the difficulty in learning to use log analysis software. There are a number of features that would serve to improve the human interface of this software, such as treating log curves as mouse-selectable objects which can be copied and moved to other displays or other tracks using familiar "cut and paste" methods common to graphical interfaces now found on personal computers. Observations of university students in an advanced logging class using two commercially available computer-based log interpretation programs helped identify performance obstacles encountered by users with limited experience. An experimental interface design which incorporates a number of new features has been developed using an advanced object-oriented development environment, thus allowing a great deal of flexibility in implementing changes and adding new features based on feedback from actual users. Introduction The motivation for the research reported here stems from the desire to improve the human interface for computer-based log analysis. A well-designed interface would allow individuals who do not have extensive computer-based log analysis experience to analyze logs without formal training. An improved human interface design would also allow the experienced log analyst to interpret logs more efficiently, resulting in increased productivity. A study has been made in which students in an advanced logging class were observed trying to accomplish a set of common interpretation tasks using two different software systems, one of which had a graphical user interface and one a mixed graphical/command line interface. The results of this study helped identify specific interface problems, and provided input for an improved interface design being developed. An interface design needs frequent revisions during the development process in order to optimize the design and accommodate new insights. An object-oriented development environment, NeXT STEP and Objective-C, was chosen for this project because it provides the flexibility for extensive revisions and for the addition of features to an interface design. Our interest in the interface rather than the interpretation algorithms strongly influenced this choice. Another design objective which is met by this environment is that the software developed on it will run on widely available industry-standard personal computers. A general discussion of some of the features which we believe should be found in a user-oriented log analysis system is presented, followed by a description of the user study and its results. An actual interface based on these results and other criteria is then described. INTERFACE CONCEPTS Identifying the Users One group of targeted users is small, independent oil producers who may run logs only a few times a year. They are assumed to have their log data on floppy disks in LAS format. P. 153^

Abstract The oil field equipment manufacturing business, like any other business working in a world wide environment, is becoming interested in reducing the amount of time required to take a product from initial concept to the market place. The most recent concept being employed to achieve this goal is concurrent engineering. This paper discusses the use of local area networks connecting personal computers to facilitate both traditional engineering and manufacturing organizations and concurrent engineering concepts. The key to making either type of organizational structure work well is communication. As companies have moved away from large mainframe computers toward individual, stand alone, personal computers, communications as well as various databases have been difficult to maintain. The authors attempt to show how a LAN would help to solve problems with data integrity, communication and speed of product development. These ideas are combined with discussion of anticipated cost savings as well as LAN installation cost. The authors show that the initial cost of LAN installation can easily be justified by the costs saved in product development. Introduction Over the last several years, organizations that use computer technology have moved away from main frame computers toward personal units and work stations. This has decentralized important data bases, caused problems with communications between groups and individuals, and resulted in inconsistent file backup. The emerging solution to these problems has been the Local Area Network (LAN) that connects computers together and provides a LAN server for network software and user files. This solution is helping to solve the problems stated above with the added and perhaps more important advantage of facilitating movement toward concurrent engineering. Concurrent engineering is beginning to be employed by many oil field equipment companies in continuing efforts to shorten design and manufacturing cycle times. Performing the design, analysis, initial manufacturing, and purchasing operations among others in as short a time as possible means that individuals in these operations must work more closely together and sooner in the cycle than before. References 1 through 3 provide introductions to these methods and Reference 4 provides a list of cautions in implementing these methods. In this paper, the authors will point out how a LAN can improve communication and data security while, at the same time, reducing cost. A LAN can also provide the necessary tools to implement a concurrent engineering plan. To explain this statement, the paper begins with a discussion of the various components in the traditional development of a typical product from initial concept through prototype testing to final manufacturing and sale. The next section provides a brief review of an alternate organization using concurrent engineering. The practical use of computer network methods to improve operations using either traditional organizational structure or the more recent concurrent engineering methods is presented next. The installation cost for a typical LAN system will then be given and compared with the potential savings realized by installing a LAN system both with and without implementation of concurrent engineering. The authors will then discuss other advantages of a working, efficient LAN that are obvious but which are difficult to quantify with time saved or dollars. Finally, the authors will briefly discuss "selling the solution". In this section, the most common objections of management to spending money for LAN installation will be presented and addressed. P. 323^

Introduction Economic efficiency, cost control, and productivity enhancement are strong themes in the petroleum industry as the decade of the 90s emerges. Multidisciplinary teams are being used successfully to address fundamental issues impacting the profitability of all kinds of projects. It is generally accepted that computer hardware and software contribute to enhanced productivity, which in turn, tends to maximize profitability. Two major barriers to the use of software are skepticism and lack of functionality. The potential software user wants to know precisely what he or she can expect to gain before making a commitment to learn a program. Potential users also want functionality which automatically leads them into the investigative and design aspects of a particular problem. Software products such as word processors, spreadsheets, and graphics packages greatly assist individuals and teams engaged in the operational aspects of problem solving, including data collection and reporting. However, these software products are generally designed to facilitate business communication, hence they lack the specific functionality required to investigate technical problems in a cost-effective manner. One technical problem which often appears in a multidisciplinary setting is the issue of pore pressure and fracture gradient analysis. Pore pressure regimes in the subsurface greatly affect drilling and completion designs, well costs, and prospect or project economics. Pore pressures can be analyzed in several ways. One of the most reliable technique is based on well log data and this is the method preferred by many drilling engineers and explorationists. Log-based methods are extremely data intensive. Valid design and investigative conclusions cannot be drawn on the basis of several calculations or chains of calculations. To obtain the "higher" value from the underlying data, time-consuming clerical and operations-engineering work must be performed first. Failure to perform pore pressure analyses can be expensive. Well control, stuck pipe, and borehole stability problems tend to consume drilling budgets at astonishing rates. The high stakes involved and the quantity of preparatory calculations required make pore pressure and fracture gradient work an ideal candidate for computer application. The "low" level preparatory processing of data is performed error-free by machine and the "high" level interpretation is performed by the engineer, interacting with the computer to speed the process along. This paper documents the engineering productivity enhancement attributed to the geopressure evaluation software. It also describes the effectiveness of the software as a technology transfer/training device and estimates the economic impact of the software. Software Description The Geopressure Estimation Software (GPES), is an integrated, interactive personal computer-based formation pore and fracture gradient analysis tool designed for use by drilling engineers and geologists to evaluate formation pressures using digital wireline log, drilling and processed seismic data. Several empirical and crossplot models are available which a user can select from during an analysis session. A decision was made to write this computer program which would allow engineers to directly address the design and investigative aspects of pore pressure and fracture gradient work. P. 231^

Time management is one of the biggest problems which we face in our industry today. At every turn we are faced with the need to become more effective and efficient in the things which we do. The largest single factor precluding good time management for Engineers and Geoscientists today is data management. The truth is we simply spend too much time, and money searching for, collecting and pre-processing data before we can even begin the analysis phase of our work. Recent studies indicate as much as 80% of our Engineers and Geoscientists' time can be spent in these efforts. Correct data management practices can be a tremendous help by doing the following things: Making a complete catalog or index of all data available to all users. Providing data management support staff to perform appropriate functions at much lower salary rates thanthose of technical professionals. Minimizing cost and access time through standard procedures. Minimizing cost through project planning. Conoco recently completed a data management task force where across the company surveys indicated that the proper usage of data management would easily save 50% of the Engineers and Geoscientists searching, collecting and pre-processing time. Additional cost savings would be made by delegating appropriate data related duties to lower cost staff, and releasing the technical professionals to do the job that only they are qualified to do. It is almost impossible to adequately address the amount of frustration that technical professionals feel when data access is denied to them through inattention, bureaucracy, or simply poor procedures. When we consider the amount of money which is spent in computer workstations, etc. which only effect the analysis efforts of technical professionals, it is apparent that without solving the data management portion, we only exacerbate a continually worsening situation. This leads to extreme amounts of frustration, and the spiral tightens. Some companies have decided not to index or catalog hard copy data items, on the basis that Engineers and Geoscientists needed to build project data bases of data. As part of the task force study which Conoco made, we contacted many of our data suppliers, contractors, and other oil companies. P. 193^