New Technologies and Decision Making in High Producing Herds

New technologies have evolved for improved management of on-farm records and their use in decision making. Computerized on-farm record systems, coupled with automated monitoring of individual animal performance and electronic transfer of data between the on-farm database and mainframe systems, have enhanced the capability for herd management. Electronic aids for decision making may be embedded into on-farm management programs to allow more detailed data to be available with ease and convenience. Technological advances and their application toward improved operational decisions concerning production monitoring, reproductive management, genetic improvement, feeding, and health in a 300-cow dairy herd are presented as examples. Substantial advances have been made in technologies that improve management and decision making. Evolving technologies promise to enhance further the capabilities for improved management and decision making in high producing herds.