Reproductive Profit Manager Q&A
What is Reproductive Profit ManagerTM or RPMTM?
RPM is a computer program developed by Genex and CRI to improve reproductive performance on dairy farms. RPM uses a farm's herd management records, including over 150 data points, in comparing performance measures to a large database of herds. Using RPM, Genex consultants analyze a herd's trends and benchmarks relative to its peer group. They then diagnose and discuss potential problem areas with herd owners, managers and other management team members. Together, the team can develop solutions or improvements to make the herd more profitable.
How do I benefit from an RPM analysis?
The primary areas analyzed through RPM - reproduction, milk production, somatic cell count, culling, health and genetics - directly relate to on-farm profitability. By analyzing RPM data with a Genex consultant, problem areas can be revealed and steps implemented to overcome profit barriers. RPM has been proven to improve reproduction and overall profitability in herds across the U.S.
Where does Genex get benchmark data?
Data from herds previously run through the RPM program form the benchmarks. Herd information enters the database as the herd receives its first RPM analysis and is then updated regularly. The two-year rolling database allows for a current measure of today's dairies while keeping individual herd records confidential. The current database includes over 200 herds and nearly 200,000 cows.
What will my herd be compared to?
The benchmarks for the RPM program consist of variable categories. Producers may choose to compare their herd against other herds in a specific geographical region or throughout the U.S. In some areas, benchmarks can also be herd size specific (i.e. less than 300 cows, between 301-999 cows and greater than 1,000 cows). Each data point reported in RPM is an average of the herds included in the selected database.
If striving for optimal herd reproduction, choose to benchmark against top herds across the U.S. based on pregnancy rate. Because the benchmark is an average of these herds, the pregnancy rate benchmark will be in the top percentiles.
How does the RPM analysis summarize my herd's performance?
The RPM summary page reports the estimated annual change of income for a herd if the benchmarks for all of the "big four" profit-related measures - reproduction, milk production, somatic cell count and culling - are met. Positive dollar values mean if a herd were to reach the benchmark, they could generate that much extra income in a year. Negative dollar values (within brackets) mean if the current management is not maintained, the herd stands to lose that much in a year.
Due to interrelationships between profit-related measures, all four measures can not be combined into one figure. For example, the reproduction calculation takes into consideration if reproduction improved it is likely milk production would also. It would be inappropriate to add these values together.
What inputs are used to calculate the estimated annual change of income for the "big four" profit-related measures?
Income estimates allow for current milk price inputs, somatic cell count factors in premium and production estimates; cull cow cost is at $1,000 per head; and a value of one point of pregnancy rate ranges from $17-35. The column total cannot be added together due to confounding relationships. Other formulas are proprietary information.
What type of records do I need to run an RPM analysis?
At this time, DairyComp 305 records are necessary to conduct an RPM analysis. All herds that test with AgSource Cooperative Services have records stored in DC 305 whether or not the dairy has the program. Other farm management software records, such as PC Dart, are being tested and may be available for RPM analysis in the future. In addition to the normal reproductive measuring tools, recording somatic cell score, culling information, herd check results, and herd health information such as displaced abomasums, mastitis and retained placentas is vital for a complete RPM analysis.
Can an RPM analysis be conducted on any dairy breed?
There are two benefits of an RPM; one is the monitor the performance of a herd over time and the other is to compare to a benchmark group. Currently, benchmarks are only available for Jerseys and Holsteins, but individual herd trends can still be evaluated through future RPM analyses.
How large should a herd be in order to run a RPM analysis effectively?
When making management decisions, it is important to use data that is statistically significant. Genex has found a herd size of 200 cows or greater usually produces reliable results on which to base management decisions.
For more information or to schedule an RPM analysis, contact your local Genex representative!
