Implementing a Digital Decision Framework to Enhance Project Outcomes in Complex Well Construction: A Case Study on Drilling / Intervention Planning

Abstract

The oil and gas industry operates under a framework defined by capital intensity, intrinsic unpredictability, and considerable financial consequences for postponed adjustments. Many large projects do not do well, and studies show that about 70% of them don't reach their operational or financial goals. These failures often happen because of optimism bias, scope evolution, and execution complexity, where initial expectations lead to big commitments. This difference in performance shows that we need solid decision-making frameworks right away, especially when building wells. This study presents the use of a specific digital planning tool, SOMA DIAP (Drilling Intervention Activities Planning), as a fundamental component of a systematic decision-making framework for well operations. The concept involves integrating all intervention operations into a cohesive, user-friendly system that enables scenario analysis, generates real-time alerts, and delivers critical performance metrics. The SOMA DIAP tool has been used in real life, and it has made a big difference in how well projects are done. Real-time tracking and visualization have made operations more responsive, and having all the data in one place has made many stakeholders more accountable and willing to work together. The results demonstrate that planning uncertainty can be decreased by 25% to 45%, NPT can be cut by 15% to 25%, and it is possible to make decisions easier to trace. The research aids in bridging the divide between digital technology utilization and decision-making, providing a scalable framework for transforming the digital oilfield. This case study presents a practical approach for integrating digital planning tools into a holistic project decision-making framework. The SOMA DIAP application shows that fixing operational problems at the well-activity level directly improves the overall success of the project by cutting down on cost overruns and bias in execution. The innovation is in its focused approach to turning complex project management ideas into useful, everyday operational controls for drills and interventions. This gives firms a way to improve capital efficiency, get better financial returns on complex projects, and navigate the industry's uncertain and limited landscape with more accuracy and control.