Exploring the present and future with smart maps
The Geographic Information System (GIS) is an accessible and essential tool that gives us a comprehensive, detailed view of our facilities, wells, and routes in the field. Curious about its benefits? Let us break it down for you!
For over 20 years, at Tecpetrol, we’ve been using Geographic Information System (GIS) technology to collect, manage, and analyze geographic data. GIS applications allow us to analyze spatial locations and organize data into layers, visualized through maps and 3D scenes. As an industry-standard tool, GIS enables us to survey every surface facility, plan new projects, conduct environmental studies, record field data, and even optimize transportation routes.
Initially, GIS access and usage were limited to niche users, like those in charge of construction or maintenance, who needed detailed information about field infrastructure. However, in recent years, these applications have become more democratized, reaching a wider and more diverse audience. Thanks to web and mobile apps, GIS data can now be accessed from anywhere—whether on a notebook, tablet, or cell phone.
Abel Fiszelew, IT Business Solutions Manager, explains how the tool has evolved within the company and highlights its benefits: “It’s an ecosystem of applications that not only lets you access data but also input it. With smart forms, you can record breakdowns or inspections, and information is automatically synchronized and stored in a database for later analysis or reporting."
“We want to encourage people to use these tools as much as possible, so that teams in other countries know that there is a map showing this wealth of information, organized in layers according to the requirements of each area. And in the sectors where it’s not yet been implemented, the idea is for people to know that it could be available,” adds Abel.
At Tecpetrol, we use ArcGIS, one of the world’s most renowned geospatial software platforms. It offers a full suite of editing applications, customizable web portals, server tools, and a variety of mobile apps.
Abel shares a practical example of how GIS makes everyday tasks easier: “Let’s say a new employee is about to travel to Fortín de Piedra for the first time. By simply accessing the map, they can immediately see all the information about the site—the location of the main plant, the wells, and even how to get there. This translates into a much smoother experience because the app provides them with all the context they need.”
Alejo Ponce de Leon, IT Business Solutions Jr. Analyst highlights other use cases to showcase the potential of these tools: “We recently rolled out a series of mobile maps that provide real-time information on the production system. For instance, when you select a nearby well, the app shows you whether it’s open or closed and provides its current control status. We also have solutions that optimize crew routes based on work orders, and even help determine the best locations for PADs for developing unconventional fields."
“This technology is highly advanced in Argentina, and it’s been already been deployed throughout our fields in Neuquén, the San Jorge Gulf, and the Northwest,” comments Abel. He also shares the company’s plans for the future: “We started rolling it out in Colombia earlier this year. At the moment, they have huge amounts of georeferenced data, but it’s not yet been integrated into a GIS database. So, the priority is to populate the database with official information and add the standard layers from our Oil & Gas model, along with various web maps that use this data, ensuring it’s accessible to any Tecpetrol user. The next step will be tailoring the system to Colombia’s unique needs, including different environmental and maintenance regulations, while adding value through mobile solutions.”