There is no magic solution to the problems faced by the oil and gas industry. But, imagine how much more productive your team members could be if they had access to real-time production information presented in a user-friendly format. That�s what SCADA solutions can do for your company, along with many other benefits.
However, the wrong SCADA system can quickly become a costly mistake, making it necessary for you to constantly invest in upgrades to increase compatibility or purchase additional hardware that should have been included during the initial installment. Doing your homework can help you avoid this costly mistake.
Here are a few criteria you should look for when choosing a SCADA solution:
- Versatile, but not generic: SCADA software has applications for many industries. You want your system to be versatile so that it can be adapted over time. However, if your system is too generic, it will have limitations. Can it accommodate your unique needs of optimizing oil and gas production? Does the company serve other clients in your industry? You don�t just need someone to install the system, you need someone who thoroughly understands your industry’s unique needs.
- Easy data consolidation: Having your production data all in one place is critical to your everyday operations and mission. A SCADA solution should be able to capture third-party pipeline data, manually entered data, an automated import of a data file, and web service with a third-party system.
- Easy data sharing: What good is data if it can�t be easily shared? A quality SCADA system will allow for sharing across all business systems, such as production accounting systems, economic analysis systems, enterprise databases, and more.
- Safety: There have been far too many SCADA systems compromised by intrusions, either from the Internet or internal sources. This illustrates the need for security, from the SCADA architecture to the programming language with which it�s written. The vendor�s commitment to security and investment in cutting-edge security technologies can make all the difference.
Automated oil and gas production is no longer a concept of the future. Optimization adds value every day. Improved automation can improve the safety of people, the environment, equipment, and data. Automation also makes the often tall order of adherence to government and environmental regulatory agencies less cumbersome. Perhaps most importantly, automation allows companies to meet production demands more efficiently while remaining competitive in an ever-changing global economy. For more on this subject, read our post on automation in the oil and gas industry.
Choosing the right SCADA system can mean significant savings of time, money, and headaches. You stand to gain safety, efficiency, and increased productivity.The optimal solution makes it possible to spend more time doing what you do best and less time in anxiety mode. As they say, peace of mind is priceless. Make the right choice the first time around and you�ll reap the rewards.
