SPE Key Factors for Success in Unconventional Reservoir Development Forum

Unconventional resource plays, such as ultra-low permeability formations and organic shales, are developed in a fast-paced environment, with wells drilled and completed in a relatively short amount of time. In contrast, understanding the productivity of these plays requires a meticulous characterization exercise because of the complex petrophysical characteristics and fluid phase behaviors, leading to unconventional flow mechanisms. Consequences of completion design and well spacing can have multiple effects due to the number of wells brought online. Therefore, it is imperative to have a full-field development strategy.