Abstract

The task of prospect generation has traditionally been the classic role of geologists and geophysicists working with available tools to convey their conceptual models to management, partners and the open E & P market. The evolution of these available tools, from colored-pencil sketches on paper to handcontoured maps on sepia, and from 2D mapping packages to 3D reservoir modelling systems, has directly improved, enhanced and influenced the success rates of drilling programs worldwide.

State-of-the-art 3D reservoir modelling not only enhances the visual and aesthetic quality of prospect generation; it demands intensive data quality control, data integration and personal interdisciplinary teamwork across the geosciences (asset teams). Implementation of "best practice" standard workflows in 3D modelling softwares enables asset teams to perform a vast range of data and time critical quality control (QC) tasks in conjunction with immediate 3D visualization and model editing, including detailed interactive well planning and completion design. 3D immersion techniques now provide interactive data analysis, structural and fault modelling, stochastic facies and petrophysical modelling, flow simulation grid building, upscaling, and real-time connectivity analysis to responsible asset and management teams for efficie nt quality control, risk analysis and critical decision-making in all aspects of the E & P cycle.

Historical milestones highlight the development of reservoir modeling techniques, moving from basic mapping of surface geology by hand to visionarium displays integrating seismic, subsurface, and engineering data in three or more dimensions. Examples demonstrate the advantages of working within 3D modelling environments for enhanced productivity, risk analysis and robust field development planning.