The number of producers installing pig recording systems has risen significantly over the past 12 months, providing a clear indication that those remaining in the industry are committed to managing their future.

Leading herd recording providers Agrosoft UK Ltd also report a rising level of enquiries for new systems for the second half of the year. James Nesling - UK Sales Manager believes that a number of factors are behind the increase. "Producers are focussed on improving margins at every level of the business. Essentially the day-to-day decisions they make need to be based on the latest available herd performance trends and data. Since FMD and the following price fall a number of producers ceased recording or postponed the decision to start, these farmers who have decided to remain in the industry are now looking for every available tool to support their enterprises. Our existing customers are also looking to us for new technology to further improve their management control." Mr Nesling explains.

This move to increased recording may have more to do with the evolution of herd data applications. Historically herd data recording was seen as an onerous chore which maybe only provided time lagged information in a consolidated format. The availability of new software technology adapted through specialist applications such as WinPig has enabled farmers to look very specifically at critical herd areas and may immediate decisions based on current and live data. Further developments now allow producers to accurately predict the physical and financial impact on these actions.

Agrosoft see themselves at the forefront as new technology delivers further benefits for producers. James Nesling is very positive for the future "The culture has changed markedly over the past 2 years. Producers are becoming increasingly more comfortable with web-based applications and the improving support. Data management through the use of wireless and hand-held technology is also growing. Increased management control through reporting of critical performance factors will determine the future success of individual and national herds," he concludes.