METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PROCESSING ELECTRONIC DATA STRUCTURES

摘要

Methods and systems for processing electronic data structures by means of one or more processes running in a computer system are disclosed. The electronic data structures each include one or more benchmark definitions and have a file format that is readable by a SGML-based language. The method includes the steps of: compiling a listing of benchmark providers, wherein each benchmark provider presents one or more of the electronic data structures to second parties by electronic means as part of a benchmark package; selecting a benchmark provider from the listing of benchmark providers based on at least one criterion selected from the following criteria: industry, country, product or process; selecting a benchmark package from the selected benchmark provider according to predetermined industry measures; and incorporating one or more benchmark definitions contained in the selected benchmark package into data structures or into software for supporting business processes; wherein each benchmark definition includes rules for calculating and interpreting benchmark data.