Oil and gas operations are inherently complex, with producers and pipeline operators frequently working in close proximity within shared basins. For pipeline operators utilizing rights-of-way (ROWs), assets can be mere feet apart. Producers face similar scenarios, with well pads, gathering lines, and compressor stations densely interwoven. These overlapping assets present a unique challenge—and an opportunity for collaboration that can revolutionize the way oil and gas operators monitor and maintain their infrastructure.

The Power of Collaborative Monitoring Programs

When operating in regions where assets overlap significantly, joint monitoring programs can streamline operations and reduce costs. Satelytics, with its high-resolution satellite imagery and geospatial analytics, has been a driving force in enabling such collaborations. Our advanced technology can analyze vast areas — 100 km² to thousands of km² — in hours, providing individual companies with tailored insights while respecting asset ownership boundaries.

This collaborative approach fosters cost-sharing between operators. Shared monitoring eliminates redundant expenses while maintaining corporate privacy and operational independence. Even in areas where multiple operators’ assets are just feet apart, Satelytics uses GIS shapefiles to differentiate ownership and assign specific alerts, ensuring no critical insights are lost. It’s a model of efficiency and accountability that’s long overdue in the industry.

Consortium Success: iPIPE

Inter-operator collaboration might sound ambitious, but it’s not without precedent. The intelligent Pipeline Integrity Program (iPIPE) offers a prime example. In 2018, potential iPIPE members doubted whether they could collaborate openly to explore revolutionary pipeline leak detection technologies. Concerns about SEC compliance risks, legal liabilities, and protecting proprietary interests dominated early discussions.

However, some forward-thinking leaders challenged this mindset. They initiated a dialogue with legal departments, asking a simple but profound question: "Why not?" Through determined efforts, they discovered pathways to collaborate without compromising compliance or exposing themselves to legal risks. The result? A groundbreaking program where operators work together to identify, test, and deploy cutting-edge solutions that benefit the industry at large.

iPIPE’s success highlights what’s possible when obstacles to collaboration are addressed head-on. The program not only reduced costs and risks but also accelerated the adoption of advanced technologies, setting a benchmark for what industry cooperation can achieve.

Interdepartmental Collaboration, Low-Hanging Fruit

While inter-company collaboration is rare but possible, the potential for interdepartmental collaboration within a single company is relatively low-hanging fruit. Many operators unknowingly duplicate efforts, paying multiple times for services that address separate needs across different field operations. This fragmented approach leads to inefficiency and unnecessary expenses — a burden the industry can ill afford.

Satelytics is a multilateral solution, a single asset monitoring platform centralizing data and insights for diverse operations — upstream, midstream, downstream, ESG, operations, ROW management, asset protection, etc. Whether it’s managing environmental integrity, tracking methane emissions, or ensuring operational safety, Satelytics delivers a holistic view tailored to your company’s needs. This comprehensive approach eliminates duplication, optimizes resources, and ensures that every department operates with the same high-quality insights.

Why Now Is the Time for Collaboration

The oil and gas industry is at a crossroads. The need for efficient operations, cost control, and environmental accountability has never been greater. Collaboration — whether between companies or within departments — is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Programs like iPIPE and solutions like Satelytics prove that shared challenges can lead to shared success when tackled collectively.

Operators who adopt this approach gain more than cost savings. They gain access to world-class technologies, reduce risks, streamline operations, and, most importantly, set themselves apart as leaders capable of navigating the complexities of the modern energy landscape.

Don’t wait to address inefficiencies or explore the benefits of partnership. Whether you’re ready to join forces with neighboring operators, streamline interdepartmental efforts, or both, Satelytics is here to lead the way.

Reach out today to learn how geospatial intelligence can transform the way you manage your assets—together. Why ask "why?" when you can ask "why not?" The opportunities for collaboration are limitless. It’s time to take the first step.