Executive Summary
The Development Geology course provides a comprehensive understanding of geological principles applied to hydrocarbon field development. It bridges the gap between exploration results and production planning through integrated subsurface interpretation. The course emphasizes geological uncertainty reduction and optimization of reservoir performance. Participants gain insight into reservoir characterization, structural interpretation, and stratigraphic frameworks. Practical workflows are introduced to support development decision-making. The course highlights collaboration between geology, geophysics, and reservoir engineering teams. Realistic field development scenarios are used to reinforce applied learning. Emphasis is placed on data integration and risk assessment throughout the development cycle. By the end, participants are equipped to contribute effectively to field development strategies.
Introduction
Development Geology focuses on applying geological knowledge to the efficient development of discovered hydrocarbon fields. The course explains how geological models evolve from appraisal to full field development. It covers the interpretation of subsurface data to support well placement and reservoir management. Participants learn how depositional environments control reservoir quality and continuity. Structural elements and fault systems are examined for their impact on compartmentalization. The course addresses uncertainties inherent in subsurface interpretation. Emphasis is placed on dynamic data integration during production. Participants gain an understanding of multidisciplinary workflows. The course scope supports informed technical and economic decisions.
Course Objectives
Participants will achieve the following objectives by the Development Geology course:
- Apply geological concepts to support hydrocarbon field development planning and execution.
- Interpret subsurface geological data to improve reservoir characterization accuracy.
- Analyze depositional systems and their influence on reservoir distribution and quality.
- Evaluate structural features and fault behavior affecting fluid flow and compartmentalization.
- Integrate seismic, well, and core data into coherent development models.
- Assess geological uncertainty and its impact on development strategies.
- Support optimal well placement using geological constraints and data interpretation.
- Contribute effectively to multidisciplinary development teams and workflows.
- Improve decision-making through structured geological analysis and scenario evaluation.
- Communicate geological risks and opportunities clearly to technical stakeholders.
- Enhance understanding of static models used in field development planning.
- Apply best practices in reservoir development geology.
Target Audience
This Development Geology program targets a professional audience seeking to improve knowledge and skills:
- Development geologists working on producing fields.
- Exploration geologists transitioning to development roles.
- Reservoir engineers requiring geological understanding.
- Geophysicists involved in field development projects.
- Petroleum engineers supporting subsurface planning.
- Asset team members involved in field optimization.
- Technical staff engaged in subsurface evaluation.
- Professionals seeking to strengthen integrated development workflows.
Course Outline
Day 1: Fundamentals of Development Geology
- Role of geology in field development planning.
- Differences between exploration and development geology.
- Overview of field appraisal and development phases.
- Geological data types used in development studies.
- Reservoir architecture concepts and controls.
- Static versus dynamic geological models.
- Introduction to uncertainty and risk in development.
Day 2: Reservoir Characterization
- Depositional environment interpretation.
- Facies analysis and reservoir heterogeneity.
- Core and log data integration.
- Petrophysical inputs for geological models.
- Reservoir zonation and layering concepts.
- Reservoir continuity and connectivity analysis.
- Impact of heterogeneity on production performance.
Day 3: Structural and Stratigraphic Framework
- Structural styles in hydrocarbon fields.
- Fault interpretation and sealing behavior.
- Fractures and their impact on fluid flow.
- Stratigraphic correlation techniques.
- Sequence stratigraphy in development projects.
- Structural uncertainty and risk evaluation.
- Integration of seismic interpretation results.
Day 4: Geological Modeling for Development
- Building static geological models.
- Grid design and model resolution.
- Property modeling and upscaling concepts.
- Integration of geological and engineering data.
- Sensitivity analysis and scenario modeling.
- Updating models with new well data.
- Geological support for well placement decisions.
Day 5: Field Development Applications
- Geological input to field development plans.
- Well planning and trajectory optimization.
- Managing geological uncertainty during production.
- Monitoring reservoir behavior and updating models.
- Geological support for infill drilling decisions.
- Field optimization and development challenges.
- Case-based discussion of development workflows.
Course Duration
This Development geology course is available in different durations: 1 week (intensive training), 2 weeks (moderate pace with additional practice sessions), or 3 weeks (a comprehensive learning experience). The course can be attended in person or online, depending on the trainee's preference.
Instructor Information
This Development geology course is delivered by expert trainers worldwide, bringing global experience and best practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
1- Who should attend this Development geology course?
Professionals involved in geological, geophysical, and reservoir development activities.
2- What are the key benefits of this Development geology training?
Improved subsurface understanding and stronger development decision support.
3—Do participants receive a certificate? Yes, upon successful completion, all participants will receive a professional certification.
4- What language is the course delivered in? English and Arabic.
5- Can I attend online? Yes, you can attend in person, online, or in-house at your company.
Conclusion
The Development Geology course strengthens the application of geology in field development. It enhances technical confidence in subsurface interpretation and modeling. Participants gain practical skills aligned with real development challenges. The course supports improved collaboration across technical disciplines. It delivers lasting value for development-focused professionals.
