Performance Benchmarking and Continuous Improvement in Multi-Well Drilling Campaigns

Performance benchmarking in multi-well drilling campaigns is critical for reducing cost, schedule overrun, and non-productive time while sustaining safety and well quality. This study develops and applies a structured benchmarking and continuous improvement model across 48 wells drilled in four comparable fields over a three-year period. Key performance indicators included rate of penetration, non-productive time, flat time, invisible lost time, and well delivery cost per metre. Baseline analysis showed average non-productive time of 19.4% and mean well duration of 21.7 days. After implementing standardized KPI dashboards, pre-spud performance reviews, and systematic after-action learning loops, average non-productive time decreased to 11.6%, representing a 40% relative reduction. Mean well duration fell to 17.2 days, saving 4.5 days per well and an estimated USD 1.4 million per campaign. Average rate of penetration improved by 22%, while stuck-pipe and unplanned sidetrack frequency reduced from 0.31 to 0.14 events per 10,000 drilled metres. A composite drilling performance index increased by 29%, confirming consistent learning transfer between early and late wells in each campaign. Regression analysis indicates that 63% of the variance in well duration reduction is explained by adherence to standardized practices and timely use of benchmarking insights. The findings demonstrate that disciplined performance benchmarking, when embedded into planning, execution, and post-well review processes, can unlock significant value in multi-well campaigns and provide a robust empirical basis for future digital drilling optimization initiatives. The model is scalable to offshore and onshore developments and can be adapted to different rig types, lithologies, and contractual regimes globally.