However, according to major engineering company OSD, the processes used previously in delivering these projects have simply not been up to the task.
In response to this gap in the market, OSD has taken up the challenge in addressing this problem with the application of Knowledgeable Engineering for Geospatial Systems (KEGS).
KEGS is a geographic information system (GIS)-based collaborative platform that can be used across each phase of a gathering system project including concept, approvals process, site verification, design, and supporting procurement and construction.
KEGS has been used on very large gathering system developments including two multi-billion dollar CSG-to-LNG projects in Queensland.
The benefits of this approach can be substantive, including:
- Shorter project lifecycle;
- Reduced social and environmental impacts;
- Lower construction costs; and,
- Reduction in operating costs.
A collaborative process
Typically project knowledge and data is spread across team members, disciplines, and even organisations in delivering a project.
KEGS brings this together into a web and mobile interface with an embedded set of rules, workflows, design tools and automated deliverables.
This results in leaner teams working in an integrated manner.
KEGS is designed for project team members without the need for specialist computer-aided design or GIS skills.
It is based on open-source technology, and can accommodate established data models within an organisation.
As a result it is extremely reconfigurable, and is constantly being enhanced as industry acceptance of this approach is rapidly growing.
Automation
KEGS has been developed to be specifically fit for purpose for gathering systems and pipelines.
The relational database stores project configuration requirements, such as business rules, library codes and regulatory constraints.
With the KEGS relational database approach, deliverables such as alignment sheets, material take-offs and cost estimates are simply a report from the database.
As with any database, new outputs can be readily configured because the data is relationally structured.
Modernising the business model
By embracing technology in this way, OSD is also changing its business model.
Innovations like KEGS are a deliberate strategy for OSD to offer smarter engineering services.
Gathering system project delivery is not a creative art, it is rules and standards based, it requires transparency and consistency, and it is ideally suited to software automation.
OSD’s direction is technology; the company intends to lead the delivery of this ground-breaking approach to project development for large gathering systems.
For more information on OSD’s integrated gathering systems approach visit osdlimited.com.