While technological advancements abound throughout all aspects of agriculture, it often leaves farmers wondering what technologies are worth the investment.

For dairy farmers, technology revolutionized milking operations. But where do efficiencies stop and needless costs start? Economic analysis can shed light. Dairy producers who know a per-cost basis for each cow can better understand what value a new product can bring to the farm.

Often, technologies that detect and measure illnesses or bacteria offer the most value for operations focused on decreasing and eliminating diseases and infections. But for a technology to truly bring value, it needs to measure what it says it will, requiring third-party validation.

Read more on dairy technologies here.