Navigating Change in Oil & Gas with Cloud-Based ERP
Price swings, supply disruptions, and shifting regulations have always been part of the oil and gas landscape. However, the pace of change is faster than ever before. Staying flexible and informed is no longer optional. That’s why more companies are turning to ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software for the oil and gas industry so they can stay ahead. Modern cloud-based systems give teams better visibility, quicker access to information, and the ability to adapt without relying on outdated tools or slow manual methods.
The Challenges Facing Today’s Oil & Gas Companies
Running an oil and gas business means dealing with continuous change. Prices go up and down without warning. Supply chains can stall or shift overnight. It’s also getting more difficult to find and keep skilled workers.
In addition, companies face growing pressure to meet ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals and follow safety regulations from agencies like OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency).
Many companies also have outdated systems that weren’t designed for today’s demands. When departments can’t easily share information or adjust to new requirements, it becomes harder to keep pace and even harder to progress.
Why Legacy ERP Systems Fall Short in a Volatile Market
Many oil and gas companies still depend on legacy ERP systems. However, those older platforms weren’t designed for today’s speed or scale. They’re complex to update and expensive to maintain. Additionally, they frequently require workarounds just to handle basic tasks.
One major issue is the lack of real-time insights. With data spread across different systems, teams must wait for reports or make decisions without the entire picture. Legacy systems also can’t use tools like AI, cloud access, or mobile reporting, all of which are quickly becoming standard.
In fact, over 90% of oil and gas companies now use digital tools like ERP software to improve how they work. That shift shows the industry is moving forward, making modern ERPs a must for staying competitive.
What Modern ERP Brings to the Oil & Gas Industry
Modern ERP systems are newer and built to keep up with the pace and unpredictability of the oil and gas industry. They bring better visibility, built-in compliance tools, and the flexibility to grow or change quickly. Here’s how these platforms make a sizable impact.
Real-Time Visibility Across the Operation
When every team has access to the same live data, it’s easier to make quick decisions and spot issues early. Modern ERP gives upstream, midstream, and downstream teams shared dashboards with up-to-date production, maintenance, and financial info.
This visibility means leaders don’t have to rely on guesswork. They can act fast and plan ahead, whether for staffing or even supply changes.
According to research, unplanned downtime now costs oil and gas sites around $149 million annually, with a single hour reaching nearly $500,000. These costs are increasing, and having real-time data through supply chain management ERP software lets companies stay one step ahead.
What is E&P software?
E&P software is used in the oil and gas industry to manage exploration and production. It helps companies find, drill, and produce oil or gas by handling tasks like mapping reserves, tracking drilling data, managing equipment, and monitoring production.
Built-In Compliance and Regulatory Support
Modern cloud ERP platforms make it easier to keep up with changing rules. They include tools for tracking, reporting, and managing documents, all in one place.
Whether it’s OSHA, EPA, ISO (International Organization for Standardization) standards, or ESG reporting, companies can stay up to date without manually updating spreadsheets or chasing down paperwork. The system also automatically reflects policy changes, reducing the risk of missing something important.
This setup gives companies peace of mind that they’re keeping pace with today’s rules and expectations.
Which certification is best in the oil and gas industry?
One of the most recognized certifications is the API (American Petroleum Institute) certification. It sets industry standards for safety, quality, and performance in oil and gas operations. The best choice depends on your role—engineers may pursue PMP or PE licenses. At the same time, safety professionals often seek OSHA or NEBOSH certification.
Scalable Infrastructure for Supply and Demand Shifts
Oil and gas demand isn’t predictable. Some seasons are busier than others, and global shifts force quick changes. Cloud ERP platforms are designed to handle these swings by letting companies scale up or down without a complete system overhaul.
They lead to quick changes in production, equipment tracking, and workforce needs. Are you expanding to new markets or managing disruptions? The platform adjusts with you.
Supply chain management ERP software also plays a key role here. Unplanned maintenance eats up to 20% of operating budgets, with upstream companies facing an average of 27 days of downtime annually. That adds up to $38 million in lost value, making it clear how useful a flexible, modern ERP system is.
How Cloud ERP Helps Future-Proof Your Business
Change in oil and gas isn’t slowing down. Cloud ERP gives companies the tools to adjust faster, stay informed, and prepare for what’s next. Here are a few ways it keeps you ready for the future.
Related Article: How to Select Cloud ERP Software That Makes Sense for Your Company
In oil and gas, the right cloud ERP can help manage complex operations, adapt to market shifts, and support compliance. This guide walks you through setting goals, mapping processes, defining must-have features, comparing vendors, and choosing the right partner. Your ERP investment should drive efficiency and long-term gains in a changing energy landscape.
Mitigating Risk Through Data-Driven Decision Making
When decisions are based on accurate data, it’s easier to plan ahead and avoid surprises. Cloud ERP tracks key metrics such as downtime and safety violations, all in real time.
It also gives insight into equipment lifespan, pricing trends, and labor needs. These details make it easier to create a clear strategy and respond to shifts more accurately.
Over time, this approach adds structure to planning, ensuring companies make decisions that are steady and easy to explain.
Supporting Remote Access and Global Teams
Oil and gas work isn’t tied to a single location. With rigs, offices, and field sites spread out, you want to be able to connect from anywhere. Cloud ERP gives team members access to the system wherever they are: onshore, offshore, or overseas.
Role-based permissions keep information secure while giving each team the access they need. Everyone can keep in sync without any hindrances or back-and-forth.
This setup is particularly useful for companies that operate across time zones or manage large regional teams.
Enabling Innovation with AI and Automation
Today’s ERP platforms connect with tools like AI and machine learning. These features take over routine tasks, such as invoicing or inventory checks. This way, teams can focus on higher-value work.
Some systems also support predictive maintenance, aiding companies in catching equipment issues before they cause downtime. Others use smart inventory tools to restock supplies automatically.
This innovation makes it easier to grow and adopt new tech down the road, without rebuilding your system from scratch.
What are the new technologies in oil and gas?
New technologies include advanced seismic imaging, automation and robotics for drilling, and AI for data analysis. There are also drones for inspections and IoT sensors for real-time equipment monitoring. Many companies are adopting cloud-based ERP to connect operations, improve decision-making, and boost efficiency.
WM Synergy’s Expertise in ERP Software for the Oil and Gas Industry
WM Synergy brings deep industry knowledge and real-world experience to every ERP project. They implement systems and work closely with oil and gas companies to ensure the solution fits day-to-day needs. They focus on delivering ERP software for the oil and gas industry that’s practical, flexible, and ready for change.
Hands-On Consulting and Industry Experience
When you work with WM Synergy, you’re getting a personalized plan. Their consultants come from the field and understand oil and gas teams’ challenges.
Their Center of Excellence includes lean specialists, industry veterans, and change management experts who are involved throughout the project. They work side by side with your team, even onsite when needed, to keep things on track and easy to manage.
This hands-on approach makes it easier to get actual results from your ERP system, not just a long list of features.
Related Article: Enhancing Your ERP Support Experience
Strong ERP support keeps operations running smoothly. This webinar shares best practices for submitting requests, using WM Synergy’s ticket system, and tapping into self-service tools. You’ll also see how the Service Desk speeds up resolution—helping your oil and gas team cut downtime and focus on core operations.
ERP Systems Built for Agility, Not Just Stability
The ERP software system you select needs to keep up with change, and WM Synergy builds with that in mind. Their platforms are designed to shift with demand and scale quickly.
Rather than locking you into rigid workflows, WM Synergy delivers ERP software for the oil and gas industry that grows with your needs. Are you adding sites, adjusting output, or entering a new market? Their systems are ready for it.
Ready for the Next Cycle? Why It’s Time to Modernize
Modernizing your ERP system keeps you prepared for whatever comes next. With the latest tools at your disposal, you can adapt faster, make informed decisions, and stay competitive in a fast-paced market.
Furthermore, the global digital market in the oil and gas industry is projected to grow by $56.4 billion from 2025 to 2029, with a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 14.5%. The oil and gas cloud applications market was valued at $6.81 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $22.84 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 14.4%.
Key Takeaways:
- Older systems make it harder to respond to change and share information.
- Cloud ERP supports flexibility, real-time access, and data-based planning.
- Built-in tools let you meet compliance goals without extra effort.
- ERP software for the oil and gas industry supports global teams and future tech.
- WM Synergy brings practical experience and scalable systems to every project.
Action Items:
- Review your current ERP system’s ability to handle remote access and real-time data.
- Look for platforms with built-in tools for ESG tracking, safety, and compliance.
- Evaluate how your system supports AI, automation, and predictive maintenance.
- Plan for future growth, both in size and global reach.
- Reach out to a trusted ERP partner with proven oil and gas experience.
Connect with WM Synergy and unleash your full potential!
Works Cited
Most common Digital Technologies Currently Used by the Oil and Gas Industry Worldwide as of 2020
Challenges of Oil & Gas Equipment Maintenance
AI in Oil and Gas: Preventing Equipment Failures Before They Cost Millions
By Michele Shannahan
By Kellie Hanna-Miller
By Synergy Resources