An emphasis on optimizing efficiencies and keeping costs down underscores the thrust of technology advances in the drilling industry.That emphasis is growing because the industry is pressing further into the arenas of challenging environments and complex wells. And it most do so with greater care for the environment than ever before.Industry experts interviewed for this article weighed in on some of the key technology areas where game-changing advances are occurring.Rotary steerable systemsRotary steerable technology helps operators but hurts drilling contractors, according to Jim Nixon, president and CEO of Varel International, Dallas.“After being introduced commercially, drilling ...