From cow-side data entry and analyzing key performance indicators (KPIs) to collaborating with your team, herd management software should keep up with your dairy today – and tomorrow.

Cloud-based dairy management technology enables producers to do just that.

While the cloud concept may sound complicated, it really isn’t. Cloud-based computing simply means storing and accessing data and programs over the internet instead of on your computer’s hard drive so you can access your information anytime, anywhere, using any device.

This technology provides you with greater efficiency, simplicity, and accessibility on your dairy. Here are a few considerations when implementing cloud-based programs.

Seek flexibility. Make sure the program works how and when you need it and makes things easier for your team to manage and harness data.

For instance, consider the online and offline mobile data capabilities of herd management programs. Dairy teams cannot be confined to a single physical space, and neither should your data. You should be able to take the power of herd management with you wherever you are – cow-side, in the parlor, or anywhere else on the farm – then be able to sync it with your program when connected to the internet/Wi-Fi.

Tools like a mobile app ensure your data is captured and provide the flexibility you and your team need.

Is it easy to use? The fundamental benefit to any program you adopt is the ability to easily access herd management data, protocol management and industry integration data together in one place.

When choosing a herd management program, seek out:

• Time savings and improved accuracy of cow side data entry with a mobile app

• Access to standard and customizable reports

• Knowledge of the who, what, and when of all actions on your dairy with an activity log

• A tailored dashboard to allow you to view your important dairy data at-a-glance

Look for a quick start. Think through program set-up and accessibility. Search for simplicity and convenience so you can begin putting data to work from Day 1. Of course, the program should be backed with user support available 24/7.

With the right dairy data management partner, you and your team will feel empowered making data-driven decisions, regardless of herd size.

Visit vas.com for more information.