In our business, we are continually consulting with dairies to recommend the most energy-efficient equipment on the farm. Many farms are starting to take a closer look at their operations and taking steps to improve efficiency.

It seems to be all the hype today. There are as many seminars as there are questions, each bringing a perspective on ways to transition the family business from one generation to the next. Many individuals don’t know who to turn to or even where to begin. There are just too many things to consider.

When milk quality challenges arise on your dairy, how do you normally respond? By observing milking routines or reviewing milking protocols? Changing teat dip or contacting your veterinarian to discuss mastitis treatments?

Dairy processors are a vital link between the dairy farm and the consumer. Processors take farm milk, then process or manufacture the milk into quality, safe, desirable, convenient and usable consumer products or as an ingredient for other products.

Every dairy farmer wants a good hoof trimmer to put his dairy as the top priority when scheduling service. As with any other business, a hoof trimmer will likely place those dairies that have shown some loyalty at the top of the list.

In the previous Progressive Dairyman safety article, we discussed the importance of owner and management commitment to an on-farm safety program. The article communicated that it is imperative that owners and managers become involved and participate in a safety program.

It’s a simple, indisputable truth: The moment your customers stop trusting you is the moment they stop buying from you. This is true if your business is cars or clothing, meat or milk. Look at what the distrust in baby formula did to the Chinese dairy industry just a few years ago … and what happens when improperly processed cheese sickens children.

In the beginning, your dairy company probably didn’t need to spell out a people management philosophy. You did everything yourself. You managed as you saw fit. As you have grown and now execute and produce results through others, it is key in business to have clarity around what your people management philosophy is and how that is helping you (or hindering you) in accomplishing results.