Real-time interpretation has significant implications for the E&P industry. The ability to reach an interpretation while fundamental exploration and production processes are underway holds the promise of substantially improving outcome while acquiring data, drilling wells, and managing reservoirs. "Real time" means that data can be visualized and interpretations performed during acquisition, processing, drilling, and production. "Interpretation" in this context includes all the tasks needed for forming a consistent 3-D subsurface model: data processing, analysis, modeling structural and stratigraphic interpretation, reservoir simulation, and model integration with production data.

The benefits of real-time interpretation are significant. If interpretations are performed while acquisition is underway, the turnaround time for drilling decisions can be significantly shortened. In addition, navigation and seismic data can be quality controlled much more effectively with full processing interpretation during the acquisition phase. With respect to drilling, not only can the target area be hit more effectively if it is visualized, but there is a substantial reduction in blowout risk with real-time interpretation. Finally, reservoir management can be done much more effectively with the ability to continuously update the model during production.

To achieve real-time interpretation, new information technology is needed. Real-time 3-D data processing during acquisition requires fast parallel computers together with appropriately parallelized software. Effective utilization of different data types from separate locations requires new information access tools such as interactive video teleconferencing. The ability to visualize 3-D data with embedded interpretation requires new voxel-based technology. Synthesis of all data types and interpretation requires a software framework such as TerraCube, OpenWorks, or GeoFrame.

The goal for real-time interpretation is to improve outcome through better and faster decisions. The method for achieving this goal is to use new technology to provide a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of the subsurface and to minimize time spent by the interpreter searching for projects, reformatting data, and learning new software. The user remains the critical element of the system because it is the user who exercises the judgment, imagination, and creativity to make final decisions, and it is the user who will make these decisions in real time while processes are underway in order to improve outcome.

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