Our Experiences with LD Builder

Well-log data standardization is the primary focus of this project and the computing environment where this was performed is the LDBuilder software. It is a methodical user-friendly software such that it requires no intensive training to use. Data format compatibility was not a problem because most database applications are compatible with Microsoft Database (*.mdb) for easy data conversions. LDBuilder uses two database formats which are Access Database (*.mdb) and Structured (or Standardised) Query Language (SQL) formats (*.mdf, *.ldf). Below are a number of observations made with regards to this short but engaging use of LDBuilder in well-log data standardization.

•  Data display as indicated in the tables is not effective in surfing through the data as there is no indication to show that you have reached the end of the table. Vertical and horizontal scroll bars could be used to resolve this

•  The database format could be extended to support text files in the standardization process as they can be converted to other formats. Text file (e.g. comma or tab, delimited) formats are more like neutral formats that most systems support. It has the added advantage of reducing size of database files, thus, increased processing and computational speed.

•  The rule based approach used in the classification process could also be iterative or recursive to reduce subsurface materials to single identifiers or indicators. This could be a decision posed to the user to decide which iterative steps to perform. The iteration could be criteria-based such that users are informed about computational timelines. Outputs for each criteria used in the iteration process should be made accessible to users so that final decision is made by users.