Petroleum resource data systems

Construction of a petroleum data file first requires answers to specific questions: Who are to be the users; for what purpose is the file to be used; what are to be the data sources; are proprietary data to be included; is graphic display of the data desired? After fixing these guidelines, attention may be directed to data acquisition and file building. Because many useful software systems are now readily available, this aspect of the file-building process should require little attention. In general, the software should include an open-ended format to permit addition of new data items and easy updating, with economy of space on the tape or lisc. With respect to the data, and unless the file has a narrow usage, all available data on the geological and engineering aspects of petroleum occurrence should be collected. Proprietary data should be avoided, if possible, or else clearly labeled, and the file should be planned for public use, for convenience, to provide a needed service, and to avoid the pitfalls of implied secrecy.