‘True digital transformation is as much about people as advancing technology’ – report calls for investment in data professionals

22/07/2021

A new report commissioned by OGUK and launched today by Robert Gordon University (RGU) calls for more recognition for the critical and diverse roles data professionals play in support of the oil and gas industry as it embraces the challenge of decarbonising its operations.

Building on the foundations of the 2020 UKCS Data and Digital Maturity Survey conducted by OGUK, Technology Leadership Board, ONE and the Net Zero Technology Centre, the report also includes a digital skills roadmap. Some of the key findings of the report include:

  • A call for support to improve and ensure digital skills are matured across the industry
  • A recommendation that data professionals be incorporated into the work of broader business delivery, as part of an integrated multi-disciplinary team to help improve the efficiency of offshore operations and strategic decision-making
  • Recognition that effective digitalisation requires a level of digital training and skills development for all staff, rather than something delivered on a piecemeal basis.

Dr Daniel Brown, OGUK’s Data and Digital Lead said: “This report reveals that if industry is to deliver true digital transformation, it is as much about people as it is about advancing digital technology. The report’s Future Digitalisation Skills Development Roadmap takes an inclusive approach, helping us harness the opportunities that digitalisation brings to people, as well as to process and technology. It will contribute to ensuring that no one is left behind as the industry transitions towards delivering sustainable low carbon energy.”

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Simon Burnett, Professor of Information Management at RGU, said: “This research highlighted the need for ongoing skills development in relation to digitalisation and data management, and RGU will continue to play a crucial role in delivering this for the industry.”

Jenny MacDonald Sector Development and Skills Planning Manager (Oil and Gas) said: “SDS is committed to working with partners to support on the digital skills roadmap to ensure people can build the skills they will need to succeed in this growing part of our economy throughout their career.” The report, developed in partnership with Robert Gordon University (RGU), can be found here.

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