Abstract: A method for differentiating a commodity is provided. The method comprises establishing a predetermined set of protocols; establishing a standard for each protocol; collecting data from at least one user device; determining by one or more computing devices whether information regarding each of the protocols meets or exceeds an identified protocol compliance threshold; and identifying the commodity as a differentiated commodity when at least the plurality of the protocols meets or exceeds the identified protocol compliance threshold. The at least one user device is configured to send information regarding the protocols.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system for authorizing access to an asset including a user interface for presenting to a user a checklist of items, a data acquisition device capable of receiving user responses to the checklist of items, and a processor connected to the data acquisition device selectively evaluating user responses to the items and preventing the user from accessing the asset if the user responses to the checklist of items are not satisfactory.

Abstract: A computer based system automatically gathers, analyzes, and delivers information relating to the procurement and utilization of a plurality of such assets, such as a fleet of industrial equipment, so as to maximize productivity and to reduce operating costs and administrative burdens. Each of the assets is preferably provided with a data acquisition device for sensing and storing one or more operating characteristics associated therewith. That information can be transmitted through space to a receiver connected to a local controller for storing such information and for transmitting such information to a remote analysis system. The remote analysis system automatically updates individual records associated with each of the assets with the information received. In response to such information, the remote analysis system automatically analyzes the newly provided information and schedules maintenance as required.