Entry and operation modes of international oil companies : focus on Statoil ASA

Abstract

This paper examines entry and operation modes of international oil companies on the Norwegian Continental Shelf, in the Gulf of Mexico, in Brazil and in Russia. The theoretical basis is the Integrated Transaction Cost Economics Model, and the focus is on implementation of company resources and capabilities in order to achieve optimal performance. The analysis is based on information of the Norwegian company Statoil ASA. The discussion concern; which organizational form is optimal for Statoil in implementation of company resources in the different areas, what organizational forms are possible and what role will the company play in that form. The paper concludes with a recommendation for organizational form, the value of operations in regard to revenue/cost ratio and opportunity cost, and a recommended future strategy for each of the areas.