239: Unlocking Subsurface Success - Integrating Data and Strategy in Geophysics

"Accessibility of subsurface data is key, especially as companies move along their digital maturity journey. A lot of valuable data is still locked up in boxes, not adding value." In this episode, Patrick Meroney urges geophysicists to align technology with business goals, advocate for innovation within their organizations, and pursue change strategically to drive long-term success. Patrick Meroney, Vice President of North American Operations at Katalyst Data Management, discusses the critical role of subsurface data management in geophysics and how aligning technology with business processes can drive success. Patrick highlights the challenges of digital transformation, the risks of overlooking business goals, and the importance of workflow integration in subsurface operations. Patrick also offers actionable advice for geophysicists on optimizing technology investments and balancing innovation with cost efficiency. KEY POINTS AND TAKEAWAYS > Align technology with business strategy: Many companies fail to align their technology decisions with business goals, leading to great technologies failing due to mismatched processes. > The power of integration: Patrick emphasizes that the biggest opportunity for efficiency gains lies in integrating data across geophysical workflows, which continues to be an ongoing challenge. > Digital transformation readiness: While digital transformation is critical for data accessibility and quality, companies must align it with their readiness and long-term strategy. > Prioritizing critical features: Geophysicists must focus on core business needs and avoid overly broad or niche requirements when selecting new technology solutions. > Innovation vs. efficiency: Companies must clearly define whether they prioritize innovation or efficiency, as this will impact their technology investments and integration efforts. THIS EPISODE SPONSORED BY KATALYST DATA MANAGEMENT Katalyst Data Management® provides the only integrated, end-to-end subsurface data management solution for the oil and gas industry. Its employees operate in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and South America and are dedicated to optimizing the value of subsurface data, including seismic and well data. Katalyst enables clients' digital transformation of E&P data with digitizing services and digital transformation consulting. Learn more at www.katalystdm.com. GUEST BIO Patrick Meroney has worked in and around Information Management in Exploration and Production for over 30 years. He has written and presented on various topics, including GIS, Information Architecture and Delivery, Data Governance, and Organizational Readiness. Pat has held various positions in the E&P business and within IT and IM organizations at ConocoPhillips and Repsol and is currently the Vice President of North American Operations at Katalyst Data Management. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-239-unlocking-subsurface-success-integrating-data-and-strategy-in-geophysics/ for links to past episodes highlighting topics discussed in this episode. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.