Livestock Software Key Terms

Get moving with common livestock software terms

By Darcy Chadwick

Livestock software terminology can be overwhelming, especially if you're starting a career in the livestock industry or switching from one specific software company to another. Most livestock software manufacturers use similar terminology while offering different package options. Whether you wish to track your animals' production or need to keep tabs on your accounting books, you must familiarize yourself with common words.

Hotsync

If you wish to upload your livestock software to a handheld device, then you should make sure the software comes with a hotsync feature. You can quickly and effectively transmit all your data from the computer to a PDA, allowing you to carry the information with you to the field or barn.
Try: Learn what type of connection you need for your computer to properly submit the data with a hotsync feature at NP Central.

Expected progeny difference

Expected progeny difference (EPD) can indicate the genetic value of an animal as compared to another of the same breed, regardless of age or location of the herd. Purebred breeders report this information to the National Herd Improvement Program to contribute to the breed's database.
Try: Learn more about expected progeny difference at the University of Kentucky and its College of Agriculture.

Radio frequency ID (RFID)

A radio frequency ID (RFID) is used to identify and track cattle. Each animal has its own specific lifetime ID number, which can be used for production purposes, to track diseases or to learn more about the animal's history.
Try: Learn more about how RFID technology works at GAO RFID.

Lactation curves

If you're tracking milk production, you will probably use lactation curves to plot the animal's milk statistics. Certain programs allow you to plot one animal's statistics over others in order to compare and contrast. You can also monitor previous lactation cycles to see patterns.
Try: Check out Herd-Pro Software to see an example of lactation curves.

Single-entry accounting

Accounting features can be an important part of the livestock software that you select for your business. Single-entry accounting requires you to record day-to-day expenses and income. Double-entry accounting has specific spots for debits and credits of the same entry, ensuring that your books are balanced.
Try: Determine which type of accounting, single-entry or double-entry, is best suited for your company by learning more about the differences at the Business Owner's Toolkit.

Accrual accounting

Accrual accounting reflects when transactions are incurred and recognized, regardless of when the money is received or paid.
Try: Visit Nolo to learn more about accrual accounting and how it differs from keeping track of cash transactions.