Beam pumping is the most used, on-land artificial-lift method for petroleum production applications and has been since oil was discovered. Applications cover the full gamut of well types, including oil, water, and gas at depths from shallow to very deep, producing rates and volumes from low to high, viscous oil production, and dewatering-gas and coalbed-methane wells. Although beam pumping has become the "standard" lift method for on-land wells, the best engineering and operating practices still need to be followed to ensure cost-effective return on investment. When these best practices are not followed, continued operating problems, equipment failures, low efficiencies, and high operating costs often result. This paper presents some of the typical beam-pump engineering and operating practices that should be considered to obtain the most cost-effective operation over the life of the installation. Additionally, recent industry developments that are related to these practices are discussed.