34 The E & P business - Conclusions and Summary  Prospecting for and producing oil & gas is a highly technical but regulated activity  The E & P industry employs experienced & highly trained professionals to ensure a high standard of HSE and maximise success rate and recovery  Drilling & testing is the only sure way of confirming the presence of hydrocarbon and conduct assessment of the reservoir  Hydrocarbon exploration is expensive and the success rate is low – making it a high investment risk but high potential gain industry  Planning and management are needed to ensure good investment decisions are made and facilities are optimised  New players in the business have good prospects for partnering in niche roles – understand your existing skill sets and build upon them