PROJECT
Shell JV Management
ROLE
Product Design
UX/UI
Research
BUSINESS
Legal
Administration
Logistics
COMPANY
Shell
WEBSITE
shell.com
Shell encountered a significant hurdle in managing its intricate joint venture processes, primarily due to the highly manual nature of the existing system. This led to inefficiencies in time management and an elevated risk of errors.
The project's objective was to devise a solution that would digitize and streamline these processes, enabling more efficient and accurate management.
The system needed to support both cloud-based access and offline functionality for users stationed on offshore platforms.
CHALLENGES
The existing joint venture management system was bogged down by manual, error-prone processes that were both time-consuming and inefficient.
Shell required a solution that was accessible via the cloud but also capable of operating offline to accommodate onboard users on extraction platforms.
The complexity was further compounded by the involvement of multiple departments, each with its own set of requirements and workflows.
APPROACH
The project began with an extensive analysis of the existing processes, involving close collaboration with all relevant departments. This research was pivotal in mapping out the user journey and identifying key friction points, especially where manual processes were causing delays and increasing the likelihood of errors.
Armed with these insights, the next step was to design and implement a system that would digitize these complex processes, making them more intuitive and accessible. A standout feature of the new system was its capability to facilitate collaborative contract creation between partners and departments, a marked improvement over the previous setup.
The new system offered clear, real-time visualization of joint venture data, which significantly aided decision-making. It was designed to be both user-friendly and robust, with the capacity to handle the scale and intricacy of Shell’s operations.
The development process was a collaborative effort, with continuous input from developers, stakeholders, and various departments, ensuring that the final product was both fully functional and aligned with all project goals.
RESULTS
The implementation of the new system resulted in a dramatic reduction in the time required to manage joint ventures, leading to substantial resource savings for Shell.
The risk of human error was significantly reduced, a crucial outcome given the importance of accuracy in the oil and gas industry.
The system’s effectiveness was underscored by its rapid, voluntary adoption by Shell subsidiaries across Latin America, highlighting its value and impact.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
This project underscored the importance of thorough research and understanding in designing systems for complex, multi-departmental processes.
The success of the project hinged on the creation of a system that not only digitized but also optimized these processes. Additionally, the project highlighted the critical role of collaboration in developing solutions that meet both user and business needs.
CONCLUSION
The Shell Joint Venture Management System project serves as a testament to how thoughtful design and robust system architecture can transform complex, manual processes into streamlined, efficient digital solutions.
The success of this initiative not only enhanced Shell’s operational efficiency but also demonstrated the effectiveness of user-centered design in fostering widespread adoption across a global organization.
Bruno Rocha
email@brunorocha.com
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