Abstract: A method of developing a velocity model for processing a seismic dataset is implemented at a computer system having a processor and memory. The method includes: deriving a first velocity model from the seismic dataset; building a basin model based on the first velocity model and interpretation of the seismic dataset; validating the basin model using calibration data; deriving a second velocity model from the validated basin model; and updating the first velocity model based, at least in part, on the second velocity model.

Abstract: A method of developing a velocity model for processing a seismic dataset is implemented at a computer system having a processor and memory. The method includes: deriving a first velocity model from the seismic dataset; building a basin model based on the first velocity model and interpretation of the seismic dataset; validating the basin model using calibration data; deriving a second velocity model from the validated basin model; and updating the first velocity model based, at least in part, on the second velocity model.

Abstract: A method for quantitatively ranking a plurality of prospects in a subsurface region, includes generating a subsurface digital elevatiomodel of each prospect and identifying a region of subsurface imaging uncertainty within the model. The method further includes generating, for the region of imaging uncertainty, multiple realizations of the model, and determining geometrical and physical characteristics of the prospect for each realization. The characteristics, chosen to be related to a likelihood that the prospect is lower risk, are summed and the prospects are ranked in accordance therewith.

Abstract: A system for and method of integrated reservoir and seal prediction is useful for evaluation of effective mean stresses affecting geologic systems through their history, and subsequently to predict reservoir and seal quality, flow and seal properties and other behaviors. Porosity and permeability as well as seal properties are modeled based on the effective mean stress. Integrated earth models are built using seismic interpretations, wells and other available data. Geo-mechanical earth models are built and stresses are computed. Basin models are built using inputs from seismic interpretation tools, wells, geochemistry, and earth and mechanical earth models. Reservoir quality and seal quality prediction is performed and the building earth models, computing stresses, building basin models and quality prediction are iterated to converge to a solution that honors well, seismic, core, geochemical and any other available calibration data.