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Connecting the dots. Embracing the information overload. Liza Bohlmann Editor: The Dairy Mail lizabohlmann@agriconnect.co.za. Never lose touch with reality – get out and see how research translates on the farm.
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Connecting the dots Embracing the information overload Liza Bohlmann Editor: The Dairy Mail lizabohlmann@agriconnect.co.za
Never lose touch with reality – get out and see how research translates on the farm
Future farmers will rely more on information technology to make swift and accurate management decisions – some have already arrived. So, are we ready to deliver that information they need?
Access to information is a blessing, but it can be overwhelming. • Start by asking the right questions • Don’t believe everything you hear or read • If you don’t know where to start, talk to your mentors, industry leaders, advisors or colleagues you trust to find out which sources of information they use most. • Web-based information is both a blessing and a curse as anyone can now publish anything!
What do we really know about the things that matter most? Do we test new information? Do we rely on knowledge from the past? Do we correct wrong interpretations of the right data? • Farm profitability • Environmental impact • Udder health • Heat stress • Longevity • Reproduction rate
Do you know what she wants? Our jobs are to understand the cow better and to use that knowledge to improve farm efficiency and profitability.
So what is out there?Who do we believe?How do we use the information we have access to?
Literature • Real research and reference works • Technical and scientific publications • Great for researchers, but is this what the farmer wants?
Websites and e-newsletters • www.dairyherdnetwork.com • www.dairyreporter.com • www.agriconnect.co.za • www.farmanddairy.com • www.veepro.nl • www.roodbont.nl • www.elsenburg.com • MPO e-Newsletter (send request to barbara@mpo.co.za)
Publications • Hoard’s Dairyman • Dairy Exporter • Progressive Dairyman • Cow Management (CRV) • The Dairy Mail
Liza Bohlmann • Editor: The Dairy Mail • lizabohlmann@agriconnect.co.za