Introduction to this special section: Seismic inversion for reservoir properties

Among all possible rock properties, reservoir engineers reserve the distinguished title of reservoir properties to pore volume, fluid type, and connectivity because of their direct impact in the economics of hydrocarbon reservoirs. In some reservoirs, engineers may be able to alter the original in-situ properties by applying additional processes to stimulate the matrix (with hydraulic fracturing, for instance) or to push the hydrocarbon out (by injecting some other fluid). Then, the rock and fluid properties that control the outcome of these induced processes become as important as the basic, more traditionally distinguished properties mentioned at the beginning. In any case, it is the geoscientist's job to understand how these properties vary within the reservoir to fully realize its economic potential. © 2012 Society of Exploration Geophysicists.