Introduction to the Well Design Process

Petroleum wells have changed character in the last decades as compared to earlier times. We have had a considerable improvement in equipment and technology, but we are also facing wells that are more difficult to drill, and we are required to make the wells more cost-effective. The result of these requirements is to put more emphasis on the well design process. The wells should preferably be designed for easy implementation. The design should also provide flexibility if changes are introduced during the drilling operation. One of the key elements in any design is cost-effectiveness. This is, of course, an element that should be considered in all parts of the design process.