Timothy C. Coburn
Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Abilene Christian University
Abilene, Texas, U.S.A.
and
Mathematical Geology Section, Kansas Geological Survey
Lawrence, Kansas, U.S.A.

Jeffrey M. Yarus
Roxar, Inc.
Houston, Texas, U.S.A.

ABSTRACT

Together, the technologies of geographic information systems (GIS) and geostatistics have revolutionized the way spatial information is characterized, analyzed, and interpreted. Because the two are so closely related in their objectives, a merger of their functionalities is particularly intriguing, having the potential to further recast the nature of spatial data assessment. A brief discussion of the individual capabilities of both GIS and geostatistics is presented here, along with some considerations and implications for combining them, specifically in the context of petroleum exploration and development. Such a blending of approaches holds special promise in this arena because many situations involve limited data that have resulted from restricted subsurface sampling, and more effective decision making may therefore be achieved.