CHALLENGES IN MANAGEMENT OF DIFFERENT TYPES OF DATA THAT A GEOLOGIST NEEDS

Research in sedimentary basins requires the integration of diverse sets of data, many of which are very large, multi-format, and both quantitative and qualitative. The ultimate goal of data management is to efficiently access these data and to synthesize them into a comprehensive interpretation. One example illustrates the range of types of data and the challenges of data access and management.

Preparation of a four-dimensionally balanced palinspastic reconstruction of a sedimentary thrust belt requires interpretation of the succession of sedimentary facies, foreland subsidence, basement structure, thrust imbrication and translation, synsedimentary deformation, and evolution of supply of synorogenic sediment. Data for the reconstruction come from many sources. A geologic map provides bedding-attitude data and lithostratigraphic contacts. Structural data from the map can be integrated with elevation data from boreholes, and with both structural configuration and depth from seismic reflection profiles. Stratigraphic thicknesses of lithostratigraphic units and sedimentary facies come from field measurements and descriptions of outcrop sections, and from drill cuttings, cores, and/or geophysical well logs, documenting both quantitative measures of thickness and qualitative descriptions of lithology. Paleontologic, petrographic, and geochemical observations and analyses add to the mix of types and formats of data. Digitized geophysical well logs may be readily integrated with seismic reflection profiles; however, details of lithostratigraphy and biostratigraphy from outcrops and boreholes are more difficult to represent digitally. Although the diverse data are in different formats, they must be integrated fully to achieve a comprehensive interpretation.

This example from one interface between tectonics and stratigraphy illustrates a mix of data types and formats. Similar challenges in data management attend other examples, such as continental rifting, synrift sedimentation and volcanism, and interaction of the crust and mantle at an active rift, as well as processes in volcanic, plutonic, and metamorphic systems. The challenge for all is to bring databases that integrate different types of data with different original formats into a seamless design.