Abstract: The invention describes a system and methods for analyzing and improving business operations. The system includes a plurality of business operations databases that contains a plurality of operational data obtained from a plurality of business organizations. The system provides for flexible user defined input and output of data and information flows that contribute to improving the operational effectiveness and productivity of a business entity. One method defines the process for identifying, analyzing and selecting the existing business process databases and information flows for performance, productivity, cost and organizational improvement. The other method includes the steps of gathering, storing and outputting a plurality of operational data obtained from a plurality of businesses in a flexible and confidential manner for each business entity. This method also includes the de-identifying of the database for a variety of secondary purposes, including research and development.