The stratigraphic concepts we document in this book have broad application to exploration and production. The concepts provide techniques for chronostratigraphic correlation of well logs that result in (1)more accurate surfaces for mapping and facies correlation, and (2) higher-resolution chronostratigraphy for improved definition of plays, especially stratigraphic traps.

The concepts also provide techniques for lithostratigraphic correlation of well logs, thereby yielding(1) a more effective method for evaluating sandstone continuity and trend directions in reservoirs, superior to conventional correlation methods using sand stone or shale tops, (2) improved methods for precIictingpotential reservoir, source, and sealing facies away from the well, and (3) an alternative to exploration concepts such as offshore-bar reservoirs-resulting in more accurate trend prediction.

Finally, these concepts provide tools for looking at mature basins in fresh ways that result in (1) definition of new play types, opening up heavily drilled basins for new exploration, (2) improved ability to define and locate subtle, but potentially profitable, stratigraphic traps, (3) re-evaluation of producing fields to extend their lives and increase reserves, and (4) a more integrated stratigraphic framework for risking new plays. Figure 40 sununarizes potential stratigraphic- and combination structurai stratigraphic-play types associatedwith the sequences and parasequences on two different basin margins: a margin with a shelf break, referred to in Figure 40 as a shelf-edge-type margin ,and a ramp-type margin.