The process begins with the Initiation phase, which defines the scope, objectives, and business justification of the well project.  This is provided by the client and includes identifying the well type (e.g., exploration, appraisal, development, storage, injection), selecting the target location and depth based on geological and reservoir evaluations.  IPT will conduct preliminary risk and environmental assessments, and review offset wells to produce a high-level budget and timeline.

Next is the Planning phase, the most critical stage of the process, where the technical, logistical, environmental/regulatory and financial foundations of the project are developed. IPT engineers finalize the well design, including trajectory, casing programs, mud systems, hydraulics, and cementing plans using DrillPlan software. A detailed Authorization for Expenditure (AFE) is prepared, and comprehensive risk assessments (HAZID, HAZOP, Risk Matrix) are conducted, with associated proactive solutions identified.  

During the planning phase, regulatory permits are secured, long-lead items such as casing, bits, wellhead are procured, and service agreements are finalized through vendor Master Service Agreements (MSAs). IPT can either negotiate MSAs on behalf of the Client or manage directly under IPT’s control.  In the latter case, IPT will issue monthly or bimonthly invoice to the Client for drilling operations conducted during the respective period. 

A fully integrated drilling program is developed with operational step-by-step instructions, HSE protocols, and a logistics and supply chain plan, aligned to regulatory standards. The HSE plan includes air quality monitoring, spill response protocols, and environmental impact controls.  Learn More

The Execution phase involves drilling the well and demands 24/7 field coordination, continuous communication, and active risk management. Pre-spud preparations include Drilling the Well on Paper (DWOP) session, rig mobilization, and alignment of all personnel and services. Drilling operations follow the program closely, with real-time monitoring via surface and downhole sensors. KPIs such as rate of penetration (ROP), non-productive time (NPT), and cost per foot are tracked to optimize performance. Daily reports, cost control, logistics management, and ongoing safety audits ensure full control of operations throughout this phase.

One of IPT’s distinguishing strengths in the industry is its approach to field execution supervision. IPT provides 24-hour wellsite coverage with both drilling and HSE supervisors to ensure the drilling program is executed precisely as planned. All IPT wellsite supervisors are trained in our Management Integrity System and hold the necessary regulatory certifications. This structured approach ensures that execution is consistently driven by a proven process, not by individual interpretation or best-effort approaches.

Running concurrently with execution is the Monitoring and Controlling phase, which ensures the well is drilled safely, efficiently, and within budget. Progress is tracked against the plan (e.g., time vs. depth, actuals vs. AFE) using FieldPro software, configured internally to align to IPT processes, with a target of keeping actual costs within 5 percent or less of estimates. Performance benchmarking, variance analysis, and proactive change management allow for dynamic adjustments to the plan. Quality assurance of materials and services is maintained, while regular updates are shared with the client to ensure transparency and alignment.

The final phase, Close-Out, includes wrapping up field activities, analyzing results, and capturing lessons learned. Key tasks include compiling the End of Well Report (with engineering summaries and performance metrics), final cost reconciliation, and AFE close-out. A thorough root cause analysis is performed for any loss time incidences and post-job HSE assessments are conducted. All well records are archived in digital formats for future reference and regulatory compliance.

Throughout every phase, the drilling project is guided by IPT’s robust internal systems, including our Management of Change (MOC) protocols and Management Integrity System.  These systems ensure that every well is delivered safely on time, and within budget, while preserving the highest technical, environmental, and operational standards.