When exploration uncovers oil and gas fields with prospects for a good economic return, the next step is figuring out the best way to extract it. That planning period can take longer than even the exploration process. The time between the gathering of the first seismic data and the first barrel of oil is typically at least eight years — and can be as many as 20. Some of the first things to consider are what types of platforms, pipelines and vessels are best suited to the region. Decisions must be made about how the petroleum* should be transported to onshore facilities. Questions about how and where the oil and gas will be processed and transported to market must also be resolved before any construction can begin on the production phase of the project.