In the second installment on great free Oil Software to increase our production, we’d like to introduce the iMessage app.

(side note: If you missed it, be sure to go back and read the first installment of our exposé on Oil Software: How to run your army of pumpers like a well-oiled machine (Part 1 of 2))

Why is this app so well suited for the oil & gas operator?

Folks, a picture from the oil field really is worth a thousand words. For example, we know a lot of operators with some serious “hands-on” experience in the field… many owners and foremen grew up pumping wells in their teens and twenties, and now own or manage very successful production companies.

And, from what these pumpers-turned-owners have told us, there is a BIG difference between a “pumper” and a “gauger”. (yeah, we were confused too… continue reading…)

Basically, a “gauger” is someone who goes out and measures oil, gas, and water production at the lease and reports back to HQ if anything has gone awry in the field.

So how is a “pumper” any different? 

“Pumpers” are very handy. Essentially, they’re true mechanics. If a pumper finds something wrong in the field, he’s going to try and fix it.

So how does any of this tie into iMessages and photos between gaugers and HQ?

By taking photos of problems in the field, operating companies that employ gaugers (not pumpers) save thousands of dollars every year by avoiding “service calls”. Through messaged pictures and video taking place over the iPad, a foreman or engineer can visually engage with his assets without ever leaving his office (… or truck … or duck blind … or pool-side chair).

This is just the tip of the iceberg friends. Here’s some copy we swiped from the Apple website, with a sprinkling of GreaseBook thrown in for good measure…

Messages

Introducing iMessage.
Exchange words. Or photos.
iMessage lets you send messages back and forth with your Pumpers. Send a message to check in. Make sure everyone is aware of a new rule or directive. Heck, your Pumpers can even send you photos. It’s unlimited. So text all you want.

Text one. Text all.

Send a message to one Pumper or to many Pumpers at once — along with photos or links you think are important. When someone replies, everyone sees it. With iMessage, as soon as your message appears on a Pumper’s iPad, you’ll get a delivery receipt letting you know it went through. You can enable read receipts for a visual “copy that.” And see when someone is in the middle of typing out a reply. iMessages are securely encrypted, so everything remains between company walls.

Wanna know how to set it up? We thought you did. Click here and get crackin’ immediately…

Have you come across another great app for the oilfield? Post it in the comments below!!

‘Til next time,

– GreaseBook