Perth technology company Swift Networks has signed a three-year contract with Shell to deliver digital engagement and entertainment services to workers aboard the Prelude floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) facility.  

Swift's technology will equip offshore workers with entertainment, communication, and information services, leveraging low-bandwidth solutions to deliver seamless access even in remote locations. Workers will have the ability to stream movies—often ahead of their release on Netflix and other platforms—via low bandwidth platform, with round-the-clock technical support ensuring uninterrupted service.

Swift CEO Brian Mangano said the contract demonstrated the importance of digital engagement solutions in offshore operations. 

"The offshore environment presents unique challenges, and Swift's tailored solutions ensure workers remain connected, engaged, and informed," Mangano said.  

Good communication: A quality of life essential 

Swift's services are in demand as the offshore energy sector invests in digital engagement solutions to enhance the quality of life for workers who spend extended periods away from home.  

In remote projects like Prelude FLNG, reliable communication and entertainment platforms have become essential to site infrastructure. 

"Access to entertainment and communication tools is more than just a convenience for offshore workers—it's a key factor in workforce well-being and retention," Mangano told Energy News Bulletin.  

"We understand the unique challenges of remote operations and have developed solutions that provide a seamless, low-bandwidth digital experience in these environments." 

Prelude FLNG, stationed offshore near Broome, is one of Shell's flagship facilities not just for its operations but also for its sheer scale, stretching 488 meters in length and 74 meters in width.  

With such a large vessel, ensuring seamless communication among crew members is no small task, making it a daily challenge for operators to keep everyone in the loop. 

Mangano says system redundancy is crucial in an offshore environment, especially given Prelude's immense scale. 

"Due to the logistical challenges involved in offshore maintenance, maintaining service continuity is a top priority for digital service providers operating in remote locations," he explained.  

"If a problem arises, there isn't always an immediate way to send a technician. Our system is designed with built-in redundancy to ensure that services remain uninterrupted." 

Swift's platform integrates with offshore emergency response systems. In case of an incident, it can override entertainment content to display emergency alerts and synchronise with public address systems for broadcasting these alerts. 

"Safety is at the core of offshore operations, and our technology ensures that urgent communications and updates reach workers instantly," Mangano said. 

 

A bright future   

Swift's contract with Shell expands its client base, which includes INPEX, Roy Hill, BHP and Mineral Resources.  

As offshore operations continue to evolve, strong digital connections are increasingly essential for effective planning, and Swift Networks sees a big opportunity for its specialised digital services beyond Australian water. 

"We are committed to developing technology that meets the needs of offshore and remote workforces, wherever that may be." Mangano said.  

"As connectivity becomes an increasingly important part of energy operations, we see significant opportunities for further expansion." 

 

Case study: Offshore innovation enhancing connectivity and engagement for oil and gas workers  

Delivering reliable entertainment and communication services to offshore oil and gas workers presents unique challenges, from isolation to infrastructure constraints. Swift presents a case study on its bespoke communications technologies trialled offshore.