Abstract: A system for determining a level of optimality for countries in which to perform a specified business function includes a data storage unit, a mapping engine and a mapping generator. The data storage stores a composite business environment index, a composite input resources index, and an innovation index. The mapping engine receives the specified business function and input factors related to the specified business function and selects at least two of the composite business environment index, the composite input resources index, and the innovation index based on the input factors. The matrix generator determines the level of optimality indicating a measure of success in achieving the specified business function for each of the countries based on scores in the at least two selected indices.

Abstract: A system for determining a level of optimality for countries in which to perform a specified business function includes a data storage unit, a mapping engine and a mapping generator. The data storage stores a composite business environment index, a composite input resources index, and an innovation index. The mapping engine receives the specified business function and input factors related to the specified business function and selects at least two of the composite business environment index, the composite input resources index, and the innovation index based on the input factors. The matrix generator determines the level of optimality indicating a measure of success in achieving the specified business function for each of the countries based on scores in the at least two selected indices.

Abstract: A surface protector is disclosed that is adapted to be removably affixed to at least a portion of a surface-contacting layer of a mobile entity. The surface protector may include a protective cover corresponding to a surface-contacting layer of the mobile entity, the protective cover defining first and second opposing sides. A first fastening element may be disposed on the first side of the protective cover for attaching the first side of the protective cover to the surface-contacting layer of the mobile entity. The protector may aid in preventing a transfer of substances located on the mobile entity from a first environment to a second environment. In alternative aspects of the invention, the surface protector may be used to protect the mobile entity itself from unwanted substances coming into contact with the mobile entity.