Advancements in technology and electronic platform-based business models have allowed many governments to increase the efficiency and scope of their electronic payments (e-payments) infrastructure. The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) conducted the 2011 Government E-Payments Adoption Ranking (GEAR) study to understand advancements in adoption of e-payments by governments around the world. Sponsored by Visa, the study tracks the prevalence of e-payments and the factors that influence government adoption.