There are deterministic data, models and methods. These have a place as the basis for analyzing reservoirs. Many of our data types are determined for use in Geostatistics and Geomodeling without considering bias and scale. Uncertainty in the data exists. Therefore it is subject to interpretation and to statistical measures of that uncertainty. Geomodels can be built with scenarios to capture uncertainty in the interpretations. Statistical and geostatistical approaches can be used to capture the spread of uncertainty in inputs, scenarios, and results. The choices of available methods for simulating parameters are growing. So are the actionable methods to summarize, classify and extract useful information from all realization sets. There are trade-offs depending on goals and information available. Model Checking, Validating and Fairness are important, yet underutilized in practice. Ultimately, decisions …economic decisions are made.
During the course of the presentations and for posters, let us not forget underlying fundamentals of spatial data analysis, trends, variograms, plus geostatistical limitations. A variety of facies and petrophysical simulation techniques are used for modeling heterogeneity. Physical behaviour of materials and fluids present challenges. Special topics may include faults, fractures, unstructured grids, gridless modeling and advances in integration of diverse information. Dynamic response and forecasting are among the outcomes of models and are themselves models with assumptions. Flow simulation, proxies, and feedback for updating are used to predict an uncertain future. Old and new techniques, e.g., machine learning, are coming into vogue in data and model analysis. Emphasis might be placed on case studies showing the appropriate use, impact or limitations of techniques. Context is a key.
Software vendors are solicited to present real technical solutions highlighting their software as part of the oral and poster sessions. The idea is to include commercial technology solutions in the meeting in a way that is distinct from a convention floor canned demo. The Gussow format proved to be successful in 2011 and 2014 at Closing the Gap I and II. The benefit for software and service companies is from the novel takeaways, including excellent interaction with the technical attendees and quality of ideas. Most importantly, Closing the Gap highlights the trends in technical themes that will influence strategies for subsurface integrated teams.
About Gussow
The conference is named for William C. Gussow, a geologist who in his day espoused concepts that were both controversial and contrary to accepted ideas. During his career he proved to be a thoughtful, incisive and visionary thinker who was generous in sharing his experience with others. The Gussow Geoscience Conference is named for him and is a meeting focusing on new and emerging issues related to the petroleum industry. The meeting is intended to bring together recognized experts from diverse disciplines to provide a broad range of perspectives on the conference theme. This fall meeting, held outside of Calgary, is more focused and in depth than an Annual Convention and is designed to foster social interaction and networking.
Please join us, David Garner, Conference Chairman