140 likes | 203 Views
The development and use of two successful electronic decision aides. Presented By Dr. Matt Stockton June 10, 2013 University of Nebraska-Lincoln West Central Research Extension Center. My biggest fear has always been that I would develop a tool that didn’t fit the task.
E N D
The development and use of two successful electronic decision aides Presented By Dr. Matt Stockton June 10, 2013 University of Nebraska-Lincoln West Central Research Extension Center
My biggest fear has always been that I would develop a tool that didn’t fit the task and/or was so complicated that it required more investment by the user than the value they perceived they gained
The Process • A recognized need • Develop a methodology to answer the need • Create the tool using the methodology • Test and validate the tool • Release the tool for use • Use the feedback from the use to continue to improve and develop the tool
The recognized needs • Deciding which feed is the best buy, depending on how I will use the feed ( energy, protein or DM source) (FCC) • How many cows can be grazed on a specific corn field and/or for how long depending on their size (CSC)
The Tools • The feed cost (FCC) and the corn stalk (CSC) “Cow-Q-Lators” • Both have come from a recognized need • Both are very practical in there application • Both contain information that is commonly needed and highly useful • Both are simple to apply and easy too learn
The FCC • Answers three questions at three levels • Establishes feed cost considering transportation, storage and feeding cost and efficiency • Provides a comparisons among costs for 4 feeds at a time • Calculates feed needs based on time, feeds and ration fed
The CSC • Can be used to calculate field rental rates or cost estimates of cattle based on • Animal size • Acres available • Number of animals • Management parameters • Corn yield
Tools are currently available as downloadable microsoft excel spreadsheets • Spread sheet information is limited to simple information users have or can obtain • Spreadsheets are generally one page
Future Access • As an app • As an online tool not needing excel
Preview of the Tools • Feed Cost CowQLator v13 5 14_2013.xlsx • Corn Stalk Grazing Calculator 4_ 29_2013.xls
Thank-You Matt Stockton agmanagerstools.com