A Framework for the Development of Computerized Management and Control Systems for Use in Dairy Farming

Computerized information systems can potentially help the dairy producer to deal with the increased complexity of decision making and availability of information in dairy farming. These systems, however, should be fully integrated to ensure a coordinated execution of dairy farming activities. A framework was developed, therefore, to support the creation of computerized management and control systems in dairy farming. Within this framework, a management and control system was defined as a network consisting of the management and control activities and the information flows that are involved in dairy farming. The management and control activities consist of a cycle of decision making, implementation, and assessment. These activities were classified according to level (strategic, tactical, operational, or regulatory) and sphere (breeding, health, nutrition, environment, milk production, fixed assets, labor, or finance). These activities can be performed by human beings or automated systems that are located on or off the farm. A large amount of information exchange exists among these management and control activities, between the overall management and control system, and between the physical farm environment and external agents. The interdependence among decisions at the various levels and spheres necessitates computerized management and control systems that are integrated and that support the exchange of information. The developed framework should facilitate the creation of such systems and could also act as a reference base for the analysis and improvement of existing dairy farm information systems. (