The data you gather before drilling determines whether your completion design matches actual reservoir conditions. Missing key measurements leads to either over-engineered completions or underperforming wells.

Critical Measurements

Porosity and permeability define fluid storage and flow capacity. You need these values from core analysis or calibrated log interpretation, not generic values from offset wells. Formation pressure and temperature affect fluid properties and completion equipment ratings. Fluid samples analyzed in a PVT lab reveal gas-oil ratio, bubble point, and viscosity under reservoir conditions.

Rock mechanical properties including Youngs modulus and Poissons ratio guide hydraulic fracturing design. Skipping geomechanical testing often results in fractures that grow vertically out of zone rather than horizontally through the pay.

Reliable Information Sources

Core Laboratories, Weatherford, and TerraTek provide laboratory analysis services with published quality standards. State oil and gas commissions maintain databases of offset well logs and completion reports. IHS Markit and Enverus aggregate production data that reveals which completion techniques actually worked in your area.

The Society of Petrophysicists and Well Log Analysts publishes interpretation guidelines that help you evaluate lab reports and log analysis from service providers.