Frequently, INTEC is given basic reservoir data, and requested to determine the most effective method for developing the field, based on the factors that are of greatest importance to the client for that specific field. In most cases the critical factors include either the lowest capital expenditure, or the fastest schedule. However there are other factors which significantly impact the best choice for the field development, such as the anticipated field life, cash flow considerations, tax consequences, operating philosophies, existing infrastructure of facilities, flexibility for future expansion, and inherent prejudices of one of the partners in the field. After understanding the factors that are of greatest importance to the client, INTEC can complete meaningful comparisons of the technical feasibility and commercial viability of the various alternatives. The field development studies necessitate consideration of FPSOs, FSOs, SPARs, TLPs, Semi-submersible FPS units, Fixed Platforms, Jackup Production units, and innovative solutions that may combine several of these major components.

In order to make realistic recommendations for the field development alternatives, it is necessary to focus on the availability of existing units that are available, identify vessels that can be converted, evaluate the schedule and cost implications for a new build vessel, and assess whether the vessel should be owned by the client, or owned and operated by a Contractor on a lease basis.

These field development studies attempt to optimize the total field development, including the subsea components, flowlines, pipelines, and floating production units (FPSOs, FSOs, TLPs and SPARs).

Examples of specific projects (with criteria and recommended options shown in parentheses) include:

• PEMEX and IMP; Field Development Options for Various Prospects (Platforms, FPSOs, TLP), Bay of Campeche, Gulf of Mexico
• PEMEX and IMP; Ayin Field Development (FPSO), Bay of Campeche, Gulf of Mexico
• KERR-McGEE; Mississippi Canyon 705 (Semi-submersible FPS), Gulf of Mexico
• POGO PRODUCING COMPANY; Tantawan Field Development (67,000 Acres; Platforms and FPSO; 300 Million SCFD and 50,000 BOPD), offshore Thailand
• ENTERPRISE OIL PLC.; Angkor Field Development (FPSO; 145 Million SCFD; 8,700 BOPD), offshore Cambodia
• A/S NORSKE SHELL; Helland-Hansen Field (TLP and FPSO; Water Depth 2,800 Feet; 400,000 BOPD); offshore Norway
• VANCO ENERGY COMPANY; Manta Field Development (FPSO; Water Depth 6,100 Feet; 200,000 BOPD; 80 Million SCFD; 200,000 BWD Water Injection), offshore Gabon