Ask a group of producers which data matters most, and you’ll get a wide range of answers. That’s because every operation is different, with its own structure, priorities and goals.
Despite that, many producers still believe they need to collect as much data as possible. In reality, better results come from focusing on the right data and executing well. We regularly see operations achieve significant insights from relatively small datasets, provided the data is accurate and consistent.
More Than Feed
Feed costs naturally receive a lot of attention given their share of total expenses. Metrics around consumption, pricing trends and efficiency are critical, but herd health data is just as valuable. Understanding current health conditions and identifying changes early can have a significant impact on both performance and profitability.
Access to daily treatment and mortality data has improved considerably. With timely insights, producers can detect subtle shifts that might otherwise go unnoticed until they develop into larger issues.
Tracking the right metrics helps producers stay ahead of challenges rather than reacting after the fact. For example, data consistently shows that health at placement plays a major role in determining outcomes like average daily gain and feed efficiency.
At a minimum, daily mortality should be tracked. What was once considered a lagging indicator is now a leading signal that can help anticipate future performance.
Confidence in Data-Driven Decisions
The industry is steadily embracing data as a core part of operational decision-making. More teams are collecting information that supports decisions at every level and using it to plan ahead, not just evaluate the past.
In some cases, producers can now forecast outcomes like marketing timing with remarkable accuracy using existing data.
The bigger challenge lies in translating data into action. Often, there’s a gap between those collecting data and those making decisions. Since data typically flows through multiple levels, ensuring it reaches decision-makers quickly and clearly is critical. Closing that gap improves visibility across the operation and leads to better, more timely decisions.
Building trust in data is also essential. When working with new producers, we focus on demonstrating how their own data can generate meaningful, practical insights. Once they see it in action, engagement tends to follow.
Importantly, this doesn’t require overhauling existing systems. We work within the tools producers already use.
Put Data to Work
Data-driven management is already delivering measurable value. In some cases, we’ve documented returns of up to $3 per pig, with further gains expected as analytics evolve.
By integrating systems that connect cost and revenue, producers can more confidently evaluate operational changes.
Our role is to simplify the process by providing clear analysis so producers can focus on decision-making, not data processing. In some cases, we’ve replaced years of spreadsheet-based work with more efficient decision-support tools.
Beyond financial returns, there’s a significant operational benefit: better visibility, more confidence and the ability to focus on higher-value activities.
Start by defining your goals, then determine which data will help you achieve them. The key is to use that information consistently and effectively.
