An application of benchmarking in the dairy industry

The dairy industry has been changing rapidly owing to competitive pressures since the early 1980s. Basic operations in most dairies are being continuously improved. Deals with an application of a benchmarking process in a dairy firm. The calving operation is one of the most complex and significantly profitable operations in the dairy industry. Owing to a high mortality rate, the dairies are likely to lose in several ways, including profitability. Therefore, reducing the mortality rate will result in a significant increase in the efficiency of the operation. Describes details of the benchmarking process as they apply to the calving operation. Data were collected and analysed for a large dairy firm in California. Presents the results of the benchmarking process and recommendations.