Optimizing Drilling Performance Through Bundled Services Project: Saves Rig Days

Abstract The Bundled Services Project, initiated by Technical Support Group (TSG) of Kuwait Oil Company (KOC), consolidates multiple drilling-related services under a single service provider to enhance operational efficiency, coordination, and overall well delivery performance. North Kuwait (NK) fields were selected due to complex geological formations, variable pressure regimes, narrow operational windows, and historical inefficiencies resulting from the involvement of multiple independent service providers. The project integrates advanced technologies, including high-performance mud systems, Motorized Rotary Steerable Systems (RSS), Measurement While Drilling (MWD) tools, self-healing cement, and torsional vibration mitigation devices. Implementation of the bundled services model has demonstrated measurable improvements in drilling performance, including reductions in non-productive time (NPT), higher rate of penetration (ROP), rig-day savings, and strengthened Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) performance. Comparative analysis against baseline wells shows a cumulative 7–36% improvement in DRI, translating to more predictable and efficient well delivery. Operational lessons include the benefits of centralized coordination, contractor accountability, and systematic technology integration. This paper provides a detailed methodology, quantitative results, and operational insights, offering guidance for scaling the approach across KOC operations and similar challenging drilling environments worldwide.