Remote vs. On-Site Geosteering

Remote Geosteering vs. On-Site Geosteering

This is a situation that comes up often as some companies prefer geosteering to be on-site while others prefer it to be remote. There are advantages and disadvantages to both. Which approach to take is best dictated by the geology of the play, the ability of the drilling team to communicate, and the experience and capabilities of the geosteering personnel. Good communication that leads to fast and effective decision-making is the key to success with remote geosteering. On-site steering can lead to burnout, distraction, and higher costs. If combined with mudlogging, there is the issue of overwork and not being focused enough on steering. Some plays, such as the Bakken, may require thin target intervals and frequent fast interpretation of drill cuttings, and are more amenable to geosteering on site. On-site steering also has the advantage of talking directly and often with on-site personnel: drilling consultants, directional drillers, MWD engineer, mud person, rig personnel, and mud loggers. The three most important factors for successful remote geosteering are:

1)      Communication – know when a phone call is in order, rather than just an email. Frequent geological narrative can keep everyone aware of what is happening and what is expected further out. DD can be engaged directly. Mud loggers can respond to requests and send pictures. Communication from geosteerers is often three-way: to the on-site personnel and to company personnel such as geologists and engineers.  

2)      Remote WITSML Monitoring – this is essential for having all the information available in real-time in order to make the best decisions. Gas shows or falloffs, gamma changes, ROP changes, pressure changes, torque and drag changes, and more can be used to make informed decisions.

3)      Experience – this experience includes extensive on-site experience. Knowing one’s way around a well-site and understanding other issues like well stability, bit wear, directional drilling parameters and calculations, gamma calibration and scaling, when to take a check shot, and when to request more frequent or less frequent surveying can be important to successful drilling and geo-navigation. It is often experience that gives one an advantage in communication by knowing when communication is needed.

Some companies prefer to combine geosteering with on-site mudlogging. Presumably, these functions are watched closely by operations and staff geologists. There may be discounts if these services are bundled. However, there is often the issue of geological experience, where sound knowledge of mapping, regional geological styles, thickening or thinning due to structure and/or deposition, facies changes and other reservoir heterogeneity issues, and well dynamics, may be required for success. Experience is essential. We suggest our stand-alone remote geosteering and a reliable on-site mudlogging outfit. We have the experience to work remotely.