V.LDL.2001-Advanced livestock data insights for improving performance in the Australian red meat

Summary

The aim of this project was to assess and rank which comparative carcase and health dashboards and visualisations producers and processors would use to improve management and genetic outcomes in their enterprises. In addition, it aimed to maximise the value that processors and producers can get from their aggregated data in a range of specified geographic benchmarks.

Objectives

Develop four web-based interactive dashboards that allow for the visualisation of carcase and health data by time and region, as well as trait x trait comparisons.

Trial the concept dashboards with industry participants from a list nominated by ISC management.

Complete a review of the likely impact the insight dashboards will have on industry participants if developed.

Work with ISC management to create a list and logic map of key insights that can be used to enhance value extraction from the MLA Group Data Platform.

Key findings

There was overwhelming support for the new dashboards with most participants wanting to know when they can access these enhanced dashboards for their live data. Both processors and producers prioritised grid compliance functionality. In addition, processors prioritised carcase trends, health incidence and health trends; whereas producers also prioritised total animal comparisons, carcase distributions and carcase trends.

Benefits to industry

Availability of these decision support tools that use real time data, would enable both producers and processors to systematically review carcase and animal health data. These tools would enable them to spot carcase and health trends earlier and act through either genetic, management or purchasing decisions. They should lead to better health outcomes, better grid compliance and more informed supply decisions.

MLA action

MLA is currently undertaking a redesign of the Livestock Data Link interface and technology. The design and user testing which was completed in this project will form the basis for development of the new system to be designed and built.

Future research

It is recommended that ISC prioritise the development and implementation of enhanced dashboards for grid compliance, carcase trends and health incidence to improve the engagement and utilisation of the current LDL platform.

Future projects within the LDL platform should focus on improvements that can be made iteratively based on feedback from producers and processors.

Integrating these tools into any system accessible to processors and producers should include links to standard industry information to improve the performance of carcase and animal health trends as well as information and online videos on how to maximise the benefits from using these tools.