Book excerpt: This book presents selected papers from the 7th International Field Exploration and Development Conference (IFEDC 2017), which focus on upstream technologies used in oil & gas development, the principles of the process, and various design technologies. The conference not only provides a platform for exchanging lessons learned, but also promotes the development of scientific research in oil & gas exploration and production. The book will benefit a broad readership, including industry experts, researchers, educators, senior engineers and managers.