Constitution Day, Fjords and Complex Proposals

May 17th is Norway Constitution Day! Just like other countries around the world - from France (Bastille Day) to the United States (Independence Day) - celebrate their history and national identity with parades and picnics, Norway also paints their country red, white and blue on Constitution Day.

Now, while the celebratory spirit of Constitution Day might seem far removed from the world of proposals, there’s a surprising connection to be drawn. Norway, home to Constitution Day, Fjords, and Northern Lights, is also home to some of the most complex proposal writing in the world.

The Allocation in Predefined Areas (APA) licensing application in Norway caters to oil and gas businesses seeking to secure the right to drill on the Norwegian Continental Shelf. These proposals involve extensive data, meticulous attention to detail and must comply with regulations set forth by the Norwegian Petroleum Directorate.

Writing these proposals is almost as complex as drilling for the oil itself. Here’s how:

• Fjords of Data: Just like the Hardanger fjord, the King of Fjords, plunges to a vast depth of 308 meters (1,4290 feet), APA application data is also vast. Encompassing expertise and writing on everything from geological surveys, seismic data, and environmental impact to technical specifications. It takes collaboration to make the bid teamwork dream work.
• Bunad Precision: The Bunad, the traditional costume worn on Constitution Day, represents regional heritage - from the intricate embroidery to the specific silver pieces - through precise design. APA applications also require precision to secure a license. From technical and work programs to environmental considerations and financial capabilities everything must be precise and consistent across 1,000's of pages. It takes accurate content to minimize the risk of errors.  
• Ice Cream Compliance. On Constitution Day, parents are not allowed to refuse their children’s request for ice cream - parents must comply or face the consequences.  APA applications must also comply with a tangled web of Directorate regulations. From well design and environmental impact to work obligation and ownership structure, everything is regulated. Missing a single crucial exploration activity, safety protocol or emission control measure leads to delays or rejection. It takes task and content control to eliminate confusion and mistakes.
• Trolltunga Process: Just like hiking the Trolltunga, the spectacular rock formation known as the “Troll’s Tongue,” involves a long and arduous journey, APA applications take teams months to submit. And their proposal doesn’t just land on a desk to be read. It undergoes rigorous evaluation by various government agencies, each with its own specific criteria. It takes a seamless workflow to keep the team, and their task deadlines, on track.
• Aurora Borealis Competition: Just as each dazzling display of the magnificent Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, strives to be the most impressive, APA applications must also stand out. Crafting a compelling proposal requires demonstrating expertise, a strong work program, and a commitment to sustainability - all crucial for beating the competition. It takes time for strategy, education and persuasion to beat the competition.

This is the origin story of XaitPorter, the number one proposal document co-authoring and automation software in Norway.

So, the next time you face a complex proposal, remember the Norwegians and their vibrant Constitution Day celebrations. Just as they celebrate their history, they embrace the complex challenges of their proposals. Your meticulous planning and collaboration will lead to your successful outcome too, and your own cause for celebration.

Learn more about how XaitPorter can help you deliver large, complex proposals 70% faster. We’d love to learn about your complex challenges and goals.

And for all of you in Norway and Norwegians across the globe, Gratulerer med dagen!

Read more: Learn how Aker BP, a leading oil and gas producer on the Norwegian Continental Shelf, uses XaitPorter to create documents that require multifaceted collaboration.