Abstract

Technology driven initiatives such as providing Internet and intranet to users have had a striking positive impact on complex fields and facilities operations in remote areas. The fast-changing parameters of the unique fields and facilities require massive data gathering and transmission to the users with the interpretation and decision making duties and skills, even though they are stationed hundreds of kilometers away from the operating facilities. Especially in the oil industry's complex fields, the time delay involved in collective decision-making and implementation of corrective steps can easily result in prohibitive costs. The role of the Internet and Intranet in enhancing the efficiency in all areas, regardless of location, is an acknowledged fact. However, deployment of these technologically innovative siblings, Intranet and Internet can effectively bridge the gap between the operating facilities in remote areas and other organizations providing profound positive benefits which could not be imagined in the past. The prevailing computing and communications technologies enabling network connectivity have remarkably improved the functioning of remotely located asset management teams and the work force.

Managing and operating the facilities by effectively using Internet and Intranet tools enable us to reach the corporate goals of high excellence. Availability of Intranet and Internet access to employees provides self-development opportunities and encourages attaining cross-functional skills, which are of prime importance.

Use of the Internet for continuous learning provides information about the latest developments and is instrumental in improving the quality of the workforce and facilities operation. In addition to having a positive impact on productivity, Internet and Intranet facilities, with the fast, filter-less and interactive communications, contribute substantially to improve the morale of employees stationed in remote locations.

Introduction

Saudi Aramco's Central Arabia facilities are located in a remote area approximately 600 kms from the corporate head quarters. New breakthrough technologies such as artificial lift system with stateof-art communications, coriolis metering, composite fiber technology pipelines and solar powered compression systems are used in operations. The facilities location, away from the corporate head quarters and support groups, which include Production Engineering, Reservoir Management, and Engineering specialists, poses logistic-related problems. Due to the costs associated with deployment of employees, it is essential to operate facilities in remote areas with a lean and efficient staff possessing cross-functional skills. The successful operation of remotely located facilities relies to a large extent on computer and comm

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