OIL and gas body OGUK has launched what it called a key piece of research to assess the pace and extent of digitalisation across the sector.

Its joint partners the Technology Leadership Board (TLB), Oil and Gas Technology Centre (OGTC), and Opportunity North East (ONE), will use the first UKCS Data and Digital Maturity Survey to canvas companies, organisations and individuals on various aspects of the sector.

These will include digital strategies, use of technology, data practices and innovation processes used to develop a digital idea into a scalable reality. The survey, supported by Deloitte, is aiming to deliver a collaborative approach to oil and gas digitalisation.

Deirdre Michie, OGUK chief executive, said: “Smart use of data, advanced analytics and digitalisation brings greater visibility and clarity to support strategic decision-making, helping to improve North Sea competitiveness.

“The data and insights generated by the survey will give the four participating organisations invaluable insight of the sector’s digital skills and the cultural behaviours required to deliver the digital transformation we need to help realise our net-zero and lower carbon economy ambitions.”

ONE chair Sir Ian Wood said: “At a time of rapid acceleration in digital adoption and transformation across businesses, the output of this comprehensive, industry-wide survey will provide all partner organisations with valuable insight of the current landscape.

“ONE’s focus is on activity that will maintain momentum, support the region to prepare for the recovery and maximise oil and gas recovery alongside the region’s opportunity for the fast development of energy transition. The output of the survey will help shape and develop a distinctive EnergyTech proposition, designed to bring new ways of thinking and working across the energy sector and in turn catalyse demand across our region’s digital companies.”

Colette Cohen, OGTC’s CEO, said: “The opportunity it provides from increased efficiency, reduced carbon footprint and improved safety is critical to sustainability.

“This collaboration will provide a valuable insight into the current status of North Sea digitisation and help focus future investment and deployment of appropriate technologies to fully unlock the potential of the region.”