As our industry evolves, upstream operators are going beyond using spreadsheets, local folders and network drives for data storage, analysis and visualization.  The optimal approach to facilitate the move to a more sophisticated, integrated approach is to build systems and automation around the data management and analysis.  This requires resources, defined data management processes, people and systems. To remain competitive, upstream operators who embrace digital transformation and leverage technology will substantially improve their system reliability, safety and ensure the limited asset integrity budget is allocated to where it is needed most.

Current advances in data integration, spatial data processing and display, and web-based user configurable applications are helping to address these challenges and create a modern integrity data management solution, which is outlined below.

Data Management

Leverage technology to consolidate and manage pipeline integrity data from various sources. Upstream operators require access to accurate and current data that is easily compiled and configured from various file and database systems.

Data Visualization

The ability to put data into context using different visual formats such as maps, charts, and dashboards provides upstream operators with a more integrated and informative view of their assets. This supports better analysis through an efficient and streamlined process.  If a picture is worth a thousand words, a map is worth a million.

Data Analysis

Operators need to focus on the most critical data that provides accuracy and impact to their risk assessments. The ability to mine critical information from validated and integrated data sets assists operators to make risk-based decisions for their integrity management activities is key.

Program Planning

“Plan-Do-Check-Act” is a proven industry workflow that many operators follow. It is critical to have the ability to plan for upcoming inspections and maintenance activities in order to meet regulatory requirements and ensure asset reliability. Companies that have invested in technology that allows them to track and visualize planned activities and corrective actions can better manage their resources, timelines and budgets.

Program Execution

Using technology, operators can develop and implement their pipeline integrity program activities through an organization wide approach. It is important for integrity teams to have a dedicated line of communication between office and field operations with access to data via a web-based platform for integrity management.

Reporting

Integrity teams need to be able to quickly compile and share critical information to support data driven decision-making across the organization. Through completing detailed and accurate analysis and reporting of the current state of each asset, technical, management and executive teams have the necessary information to make confident decisions to mitigate potential threats and reduce pipeline risks, protect capital and ensure the safety of the public and the environment.

Dynamic Risk offers unique and industry-leading technology enabled solutions for pipeline integrity management, inline inspection and regulatory compliance. To learn more about how Dynamic Risk can support and effectively manage your organization’s upstream pipeline assets, please visit our upstream solutions webpage or contact Han directly.

About the Author:

Han Wu – Manager, Upstream Services & Analytics

Han is managing a team of upstream asset integrity professionals for Dynamic Risk. With over 10 years of project management and pipeline integrity experience, Han has a strong understanding of pipeline risk assessments, in-line inspections, corrosion mitigation and integrity data management. Mr. Wu is also experienced with conducting integrity program reviews directly with field operations. Mr. Wu is a member of APEGA and NACE. Han can be reached directly at Han_Wu@DynamicRisk.net