About the Geographic Information Systems Applications Course

Time Training Center’s 5-day, 30-hour GIS for Oil & Gas Upstream course offers a practical, end-to-end approach to applying GIS technology in exploration and production. It equips you with the technical knowledge and practical skills to deploy GIS solutions for various upstream operations.

The course explores fundamental GIS concepts and their strategic application in subsurface mapping, reservoir modelling, infrastructure planning, environmental compliance, and field operations management. It integrates remote sensing, geophysical, and real-time operational data with industry-standard GIS platforms, emphasising hands-on experience to optimise workflows and support data-driven decision-making.

Through a blend of modules, real-world case studies, and interactive exercises, our course helps professionals develop and manage customised GIS-based solutions. You will gain expertise in spatial data types, geodatabase design, advanced spatial analysis, automation through scripting, and application customisation. This knowledge will help drive operational efficiency, enhance reservoir understanding, ensure regulatory compliance, and foster innovation in upstream oil and gas.

Geographic Information Systems Applications Course Objectives

​By the end of this Geographic Information Systems Applications in Oil and Gas Upstream training course, participants will be able to:​

• Understand and apply the core principles and architecture of Geographic Information Systems in upstream oil and gas workflows.
• Classify and manage various spatial data types and ensure data quality through appropriate acquisition and validation techniques.
• Utilise leading GIS software platforms to design geodatabases, create spatial layers, and manage complex datasets.
• Perform advanced spatial analysis for geological interpretation, reservoir modelling, and exploration planning.
• Integrate remote sensing and geophysical data into GIS for enhanced subsurface characterisation and field assessments.
• Generate professional cartographic outputs, 3D visualisations, and thematic maps for technical reporting and stakeholder communication.
• Develop GIS solutions for infrastructure design, including pipeline routing, well pad placement, and facilities planning.
• Employ GIS for environmental monitoring, impact assessment, and regulatory compliance within exploration and production areas.
• Apply GIS in real-time operations monitoring, asset tracking, and field data integration with SCADA and IoT systems.
• Streamline exploration and production workflows by leveraging GIS for logistics planning, performance analysis, and KPI tracking.
• Configure Web GIS and mobile applications for field deployment and live data access.
• Automate GIS workflows and analysis tasks using Python scripting and ModelBuilder.
• Customise GIS tools and user interfaces to align with project-specific upstream operational needs.
• Anticipate and incorporate future trends in GIS technology, including AI, big data, 3D GIS, and digital twin integration for next-generation oil and gas applications.

Training Methodology

We employ a comprehensive and applied learning strategy, integrating theory with real-world implementation:

• 30% Conceptual Learning: Expert-led sessions on catalytic theory and engineering principles
• 20% Interactive Workshops: Group exercises, presentations, and technical discussion forums
• 30% Case-Based Learning: Industry-specific examples and troubleshooting scenarios
• 20% Technology Integration: Digital tools, simulations, and catalyst modelling applications

Note: Instructors may adjust the training approach to fit technical requirements or participant engagement levels.

Course Instructor:

Our courses are delivered by highly qualified instructors with extensive experience in both industry and academia. With decades of hands-on expertise across a wide range of technical disciplines, our instructors are dedicated to providing high-quality, impactful training that equips participants with practical knowledge and skills they can immediately apply. Full instructor profiles are available upon request.

Course Fees

The course fee includes the following:

• Course Materials: Comprehensive participant materials, including lecture notes, slides, and case study documents. (Tablet or IPAD)
• Coffee/Tea: Provided on arrival and during morning and afternoon breaks to keep participants refreshed.
• Buffet Lunch: Served daily to ensure participants have an opportunity to network and recharge during lunch breaks.

Who Should Attend Our Geographic Information Systems Applications Course?

This training course is highly beneficial for professionals involved in exploration, production, geospatial analysis, and data integration within upstream oil and gas operations, including:

• Geologists and Geoscientists
• Reservoir Engineers and Subsurface Specialists
• Exploration and Production Engineers
• GIS Analysts and Geospatial Specialists
• Petroleum Engineers and Field Development Planners
• Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) Specialists
• Pipeline, Infrastructure, and Facilities Engineers
• Data Management and Information System Professionals
• Remote Sensing and Geophysical Data Analysts
• Operations Managers and Field Supervisors
• Technical Project Managers and Digital Transformation Leads

Geographic Information Systems Applications Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction to GIS in Upstream Oil and Gas Operations

• Pre-test assessment of existing knowledge
• Overview of GIS concepts, architecture, and components
• Importance of GIS in upstream exploration and production workflows
• Applications of spatial data in oil and gas decision-making
• Introduction to industry-standard GIS platforms and tools

Module 2: Spatial Data Types, Acquisition Methods, and Data Quality Management

• Classification and structure of vector and raster data
• Sources of spatial data: satellite imagery, GPS, field surveys, and legacy datasets
• Data accuracy, resolution, and reliability considerations
• Techniques for validating and maintaining spatial data integrity

Module 3: GIS Software Tools and Geodatabase Management

• The business context and drivers influencing FM strategy
• Navigating GIS user interfaces and core functionalities
• Creating and editing spatial features and attributes
• Designing and managing geodatabases for oil and gas applications
• Spatial indexing, metadata standards, and version control

Module 4: Geospatial Analysis for Exploration and Field Development

• Buffering, overlay, spatial joins, and proximity analysis techniques
• Identifying geohazards, fault lines, and stratigraphic features
• Analysing terrain, topography, and elevation models for exploration planning
• Case studies of GIS-based site evaluations and field screening 

Module 5: Integration of Remote Sensing and Geophysical Data

• Fundamentals of remote sensing and geophysical data types
• Importing and preprocessing seismic, magnetic, and gravity data
• Combining subsurface datasets with surface geospatial information
• Using image classification and raster analysis for reservoir delineation 

Module 6: Cartographic Mapping and Spatial Visualisation Techniques

• Principles of thematic mapping and cartographic design
• Symbolization, labelling, and layout composition for technical maps
• Generating cross-sections, profiles, and 3D visualisations
• Exporting maps and reports for engineering and management teams 

Module 7: GIS Applications in Reservoir Characterisation and Modelling

• Mapping structural features, isopach maps, and net pay zones
• Spatial interpolation and contouring of petrophysical properties
• GIS integration with reservoir simulation and modelling tools
• Data-driven reservoir delineation and resource estimation 

Module 8: GIS for Well Planning, Pipeline Routing, and Infrastructure Design

• Site selection for drilling and production facilities
• Routing analysis and corridor modelling for pipelines and access roads
• Terrain analysis, slope evaluation, and environmental constraints
• Optimising layout designs for operational efficiency and safety

Module 9: Environmental Monitoring and Regulatory Compliance Using GIS

• GIS for impact assessments, emissions tracking, and habitat mapping
• Environmental sensitivity index (ESI) mapping
• Monitoring of spill incidents, flaring, and discharge zones
• GIS support for regulatory reporting and compliance documentation

Module 10: Field Operations Monitoring and Asset Management

• Real-time GIS applications in field data acquisition and tracking
• Visualising and managing well locations, flowlines, and surface equipment
• Integration with SCADA, IoT, and asset management systems
• Spatial dashboards and condition-based maintenance planning

Module 11: Workflow Optimisation Using GIS in E&P Activities

• Identifying operational inefficiencies using spatial data
• Streamlining logistics, routing, and resource allocation
• Collaborative GIS environments for multidisciplinary planning
• Performance monitoring and KPI visualisation through GIS

Module 12: Real-Time Data Integration and Dynamic Visualisation

• Techniques for integrating live data feeds into GIS platforms
• Configuring Web GIS and cloud-based geospatial services
• Creating interactive dashboards and story maps
• Use of sensors, GPS, and mobile GIS in field operations

Module 13: GIS Automation and Scripting Using Python and ModelBuilder

• Introduction to Python scripting for GIS workflows
• Building custom geoprocessing tools and scripts
• Automating repetitive spatial analysis tasks
• Case examples of GIS automation in upstream projects

Module 14: Customising GIS Applications for Upstream Challenges

• Designing user interfaces and custom toolsets in GIS
• Configuring GIS for project-specific workflows and data models
• Integration with ERP, CMMS, and engineering applications
• Building modular GIS solutions for scalability and reusability

Module 15: Future Trends in GIS for Oil and Gas Exploration and Production

• Advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning in GIS
• Geospatial big data analytics and predictive modelling 
• Blockchain and secure geospatial data management
• Innovations in augmented reality (AR), 3D GIS, and digital twins for upstream operations

Module 16: Capstone and Assessment

• Review of Core Topics and Key Learnings
• Final Group Discussion and Q&A
• Post-Test Evaluation
• Certificate Presentation

Course Completion Certificate

Upon completing your course at Time Training Center, you will be awarded an official Course Completion Certificate, recognising your achievement and the skills you've gained. This certificate validates your expertise and reflects the high standards of training you've undergone.