Metocean Data: Maximising Potential Cost Benefit

Metocean data are critical through the oil and gas development life cycle. However, the approach taken to acquisition of metocean data (whether modelled or measured), and its subsequent storage and distribution, is often not properly addressed to consider requirements beyond individual components of the life cycle. Additionally a disconnected approach to data-driven projects lacks the benefits afforded through an integrated system that can lead to both operational and financial inefficiencies. The proper consideration of metocean data is briefly discussed in this paper. However the focus of the paper is the description of a web based system that provides access to metocean data in a range of formats that best meet the needs of non-expert end users. The system can deliver: • hindcast data, • forecast data, • near real time in-situ measurement data, • and earth observing data. All readily queried through a simple a ‘GIS’ style interface. The system can be considered as a number of elements: • Data import and retrieval; • Data storage; • Data interface; • Client management system; • Client interface. The data platform underpinning the architecture is designed to readily interface to all types of data delivery, both into and out of the system. The Client Management System ensures that access to data is restricted to bona fide users of the companies owning the data. The system aims to utilise the best available technology and where appropriate to utilise available ‘off the shelf’ solutions. The focus of the work for these elements has been determining data structures and the interface between the elements. The client interface was considered to be the highly critical element as it is the only element seen by the client. It has been developed with a range of end users in mind. The information delivered will be tailored by the system to meet the requirements of various end user applications. For example meteorological and wave data may be delivered to meet the requirements of legislation to support helicopter operations. The same data may be delivered in a different way to support construction activity such that a traffic light system is applied to operational limits. The system permits delivery via standard internet browsers on a PC or via PDAs, thus enabling decision makers onshore to be aware of in-field conditions. Alerts on conditions can also be applied to ensure that personnel are aware of potential impact of metocean conditions on offshore operations.