The Supplier Side of Shale

Shale Renaissance: A Look at the Supplier-side

Horizontal drilling, multi-stage fracturing and other innovative technologies have forever changed both economics and mechanics underlying oil and gas development in U.S. onshore markets. Moreover, it’s looking increasingly like these methods will spread to other parts of the globe.

Unlike for certain other segments, suppliers deserve much of the credit for today’s shale renaissance. And that’s not just our opinion. Since 2008, users of oilfield products and services participating in EnergyPoint’s customer satisfaction surveys have rated suppliers noticeably higher for horizontal wells and other shale-related applications. This is the case for overall satisfaction and across multiple product and service attributes.

Continue reading “The Supplier Side of Shale”

Watchful Eyes, Everywhere

The Oil and Gas Industry Searches for Ways to Improve

In the wake of the BP Macondo Gulf of Mexico oil spill, the oil and gas industry is, and will remain for years to come, under the microscope. And it’s not only politicians and environmentalists peering through the crude-stained eyepiece. The gawking multitudes this time include the media, investors, John Q. Public, and even industry participants.

Going forward, virtually every move the industry makes (or fails to make) will be subject to efforts to ascertain whether the industry can be trusted.  Will it take the steps needed to improve its performance, stewardship and reputation? Continue reading “Watchful Eyes, Everywhere”

Wanted: Responsible Oilfield Suppliers

HSE Feature Image

It doesn’t take long for even the most casual observer to understand the role health, safety and environmental (HSE) plays in the relationship between customers and suppliers in the oil and gas industry. Put simply, HSE performance is the first and last factor many consider when selecting an oilfield supplier.

In general, EnergyPoint’s data indicate customers’ satisfaction with suppliers in HSE-related areas remains strong. In fact, the last five years’ HSE scores are materially higher than for other satisfaction metrics. Moreover, despite overall satisfaction hitting a low point in 2006-07, HSE ratings remained in relatively good shape. Continue reading “Wanted: Responsible Oilfield Suppliers”

North American Land Driller Ratings Fall

North American Land Driller Ratings Fall (FI). v. 1.00

Demand for North American (NAM) land-drilling services has leveled off for the time being. A warm first half of winter and expectations for shoulder-month reductions in gas demand have given many producers pause regarding their drilling programs.

We believe a modest slowdown in activity could prove a blessing in disguise for many drillers, who could use the opportunity to regroup after a frenzied couple of years that, despite record earnings, have cost them in terms of customer satisfaction. Continue reading “North American Land Driller Ratings Fall”