Duplicative Surveys

Adequate imaging of the subsurface in order to identify potential resources and de-risk any subsequent activities such as drilling or the development of infrastructure relies upon the acquisition of a variety of data types at different depths and levels of detail (resolution). Over time, technological developments also enhance our ability to image parts of the subsurface which may be challenging in certain types of geological settings. Modern data processing techniques can help to derive additional insights from previously acquired data, but often there is no effective substitute for acquiring additional, modern data, using the latest techniques.

There are many variations in the configuration of a survey, with numerous data acquisition and processing options that can enhance decision-making based on the insights derived. Companies use proprietary, patented survey acquisition and data processing methods, which make each survey distinctive and their data unique.  Survey data, even when acquired in overlapping geographical areas or periods of time, contain different information about the subsurface and what lies beneath it.

Geophysical survey customers find data differences substantial enough that they often license multiple sets of information for the same geographical area because the various data delineate different aspects of the subsurface, helping companies evaluate the resource potential and eliminate safety and operational risks.  As new technological advancements are made, there is an incentive to conduct new surveys, which promise better geophysical data quality and stronger assurances of safe, continuous, and reliable yields of offshore oil and gas resources.

Further, there are also regulatory drivers to acquire, license and utilize1 for the purposes of characterization and de-risking as part of good oilfield practice. Examples include the United Kingdom, where regulators recommend the acquisition of modern data at regular intervals during all stages of the exploration, appraisal and production lifecycle.