Liverstock management systems and methods

Abstract

This invention relates to systems and methods for managing livestock, such as cattle, from conception to consumption. More particularly, this invention relates to systems and methods in which users, such as producers, feedlot managers, packers, buyers, sellers, and consumers, are brought together through shared information and improved communication. Users may access one or more applications, tools, and / or systems to increase the value of each animal, monitor and track each animal, and improve the efficiency of their operation.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This is application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 071,437, filed Feb. 7, 2002, and incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND [0002] This invention relates to systems and methods for managing livestock, such as cattle, from conception to consumption. More particularly, this invention relates to systems and methods in which members of the livestock production chain, such as producers, feedlot managers, packers, and retailers, are brought together through an Internet-based platform which integrates information, technology-based tools, and electronic commerce designed to improve communication throughout the livestock industry and to provide systems and methods for tracking animal performance, creating increased value, and improving overall operational efficiency and quality. [0003] The livestock industry is a multi-billion dollar business. Beginning at the producer or ranch level, owners typically raise animals unt...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0014] This invention relates to systems and methods for managing livestock, such as cattle, from conception to consumption. More particularly, this invention relates to systems and methods in which users, such as producers, feedlot managers, packers, buyers, sellers, and consumers, are brought together through shared information and improved communication. Users may access one or more applications, tools, and / or systems to increase the value of each animal, monitor and track each animal, and improve the efficiency of their operation.

[0037] Some embodiments of the present invention may provide a user with a consumer value system to evaluate the user's product and provide the user with feedback. The user may enter attributes or any other suitable product information. Attributes may include genetics information, completed program information, etc. The consumer value system may obtain marketing information and determine the user's consumer value. The user's consumer value may be a quality or performance rating. The user may decide to make changes to the user's operation based on the ratings. In some embodiments, the consumer value system may identify other products, which may be compatible with the user's operation. In some embodiments, the consumer value system may analyze collected attribute from other users (e.g., feedback) using an expert system. The consumer value system may provide the user with the analysis, thereby assisting the user in managing multiple animals.

Problems solved by technology

However, there is no standard method for verifying that a rancher has complied with the program's guidelines.

Typically, branded beef programs are verified by verbal acknowledgment, which at times may cause distrust amongst producers and buyers.

As a result of losing information on each animal, such as a calf's vaccination and health history, the cost of healthcare for animals increases.

It is also difficult to access performance records of various feedlots.

However, there is a growing shortage of these people in the industry.

Unfortunately, most livestock owners lose valuable time consulting multiple sources to obtain the necessary information and recommendations.

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