How do you update your geological models based on feedback?

1 Collect and analyze feedback

The first step to update your geological models is to collect and analyze the feedback from different sources. Feedback can be quantitative or qualitative, direct or indirect, and consistent or conflicting. You need to evaluate the quality, reliability, and relevance of the feedback for your model objectives and assumptions. You also need to identify the gaps, uncertainties, and anomalies in the feedback and how they affect your model accuracy and confidence. Some of the methods and tools you can use to collect and analyze feedback are data management systems, quality control procedures, statistical analysis, cross-validation, and visualization.

2 Identify and prioritize model updates

The next step is to identify and prioritize the model updates that are needed based on the feedback. You need to determine which model parameters, features, or scenarios need to be changed, added, or deleted to improve the model fit and performance. You also need to consider the impact, feasibility, and urgency of the model updates on your project goals, timelines, and resources. Some of the criteria and techniques you can use to identify and prioritize model updates are sensitivity analysis, optimization, ranking, and scoring.

3 Implement and test model updates

The third step is to implement and test the model updates using the appropriate software and workflows. You need to apply the model updates in a consistent and transparent manner, following the best practices and standards of your industry and organization. You also need to test the model updates for validity, stability, and robustness, using various methods and metrics. Some of the methods and tools you can use to implement and test model updates are modeling software, scripting, automation, verification, and validation.

4 Communicate and document model updates

The final step is to communicate and document the model updates to your stakeholders and peers. You need to explain the rationale, methods, and results of the model updates in a clear and concise way, using the appropriate language and formats. You also need to document the model updates in a systematic and traceable way, using the proper records and reports. Some of the methods and tools you can use to communicate and document model updates are presentations, reports, maps, charts, tables, and metadata.

Updating geological models based on feedback is a crucial skill for petroleum engineers to enhance their model quality and reliability. By following these steps and overcoming the challenges, you can update your geological models based on feedback more effectively and efficiently.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?