Producers who have computers frequently ask about the availability of software programs to handle cow-calf production records. Before purchasing a software program, it is important to analyze the value of a system to help make better management decisions. Producers should evaluate existing records to determine the types of information needed from a software program. Are inventory records important? Are summary reports of primary interest? By considering specific record needs, the producer is better equipped to choose an appropriate software package.
If the cow-calf operator is not currently keeping any records on herd performance, a good starting point may be some basic calf crop records, cow information (if individual identification is used), calving and weaning percentages, inventory numbers, number of females exposed to the bull(s), etc. Seedstock and commercial cow-calf producers have different needs. In addition, herd size can influence the degree of detail that a producer is willing or able to assemble on the cattle.
Meaningful cow-calf records may be handwritten or computerized. Monthly calendars, journals, and Integrated Resource Management Redbooks are a few examples of handwritten record systems. The choice of programs, features, and cost of software are the “fine-tuning” portion of recordkeeping. The link below will provide access to the summary of nine commercially available cow-calf software packages. Features are described under six headings including cow information, sire information, calf information, herd information, computer requirements and additional considerations.
The program purchase costs range from $149 to $600. Many software companies offer program demonstration copies for free. Programs have various computer requirements such as minimum processor type and speed, minimum RAM, operating system, hard disk space, and monitor needs. Most programs
provide comprehensive cow, calf, and sire data entry fields, as well as herd production summaries. Many of the programs accommodate both commercial and seedstock cattle needs. Seedstock producers should check with their breed association for software package availability and recommendations prior to purchasing software for registered cattle records.
Before purchasing any software, determine the level and cost of software support that will be provided by the company. In addition, some programs have specific cattle information requirements before the program will work. Sorting applications and the type of reports generated may vary, but in many cases producers have the opportunity to customize reports to meet specific needs. Another important feature may include the ability to search the data for specific animal information. Every cow-calf operator must determine the amount of time available to devote to practical recordkeeping and weigh this commitment against software costs, data entry features, and desired summary reports. The article was compiled by Oklahoma State University Extension. The complete article is located at https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/cow-calf-production-record-software.html.
Montana State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture and Montana Counties Cooperating. MSU Extension is an equal opportunity/affirmative action provider of educational outreach.
