Over the last 2 years, a series of organizational structures, systems, and processes produced outstanding results from a five-well exploration drilling program that involved three different rigs and teams. Risk assessment. is a key thread that runs through the process, from high level risks in a conceptual design to details of day-to-day execution. It is robustly linked to the process for estimating well times and contingency costs and provides a means of communicating risks to business delivery up to management. A correct set of well objectives and design basis is the foundation of an effective detailed planning phase involving a large team of contractors. Integration of service suppliers and drilling contractor into a comprehensive planning effort is key to planning and execution success. Standard project-management techniques are combined with structuring of the organization around delivery of key elements of the well to ensure that a large project team is properly focused on achieving a world-class operational target. Detailed planning ensures flawless operation and efficient recovery from setbacks. The rig team is critical to getting the detail right. In the end, rigorous post-analysis is essential to ensure that lessons learned, not only about the technical aspects of the well, but also the process, are fed back into the planning of future operations.