Inside the Push to Make Drilling Decisions in Real Time

The Baker Hughes and Corva partnership helps drilling teams move faster by unifying real-time data into a single operational view

27 Jan 2026

Baker Hughes and Corva are deepening the use of real-time data analytics in drilling operations, as oil and gas operators increasingly rely on software to support faster, on-site decision-making.

Under their partnership, Baker Hughes acts as a reseller of Corva’s software platform, giving customers access to more than 100 digital applications focused on drilling optimisation, performance monitoring and operational efficiency. The collaboration is designed to integrate multiple streams of drilling data into a single, real-time operational view.

Drilling sites generate large volumes of information, ranging from equipment performance to downhole conditions. Much of this data has traditionally been fragmented or analysed only after drilling activities were completed. The companies say the integrated platform allows drilling teams to identify issues as they emerge and adjust parameters while operations are underway.

Corva positions its software around delivering actionable insights at key decision points during drilling. Baker Hughes has increasingly emphasised digital capabilities as a core part of its offering, alongside physical tools and field services.

Industry observers view the collaboration as part of a gradual digital transition within oil and gas, particularly in North America. Operators face continued pressure to improve efficiency, manage costs and enhance safety in competitive shale basins. Digital platforms are attractive because they can deliver incremental performance gains without requiring major changes to physical infrastructure.

For Baker Hughes, the partnership supports wider deployment of established software solutions across its customer base. For Corva, it enables deeper integration into daily drilling workflows and access to a broader group of operators.

The companies have also worked together on AI-driven drilling optimisation projects with international operators, including Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, highlighting how real-time analytics and automation are moving from concept into routine execution.

Challenges remain, including cybersecurity, data governance and system reliability. Still, the collaboration shows how software-enabled insight is becoming a more important factor in drilling performance and operational competitiveness.