ABSTRACT
Technological advances in microcomputers are following an exponential curve, and in 1983 the curve has approached the vertical with new concepts being released in ever-shorter time spans. The rapid technical development and decreasing prices increase the probability that computerized herd management systems will be utilized by the majority of beef producers. Basic questions must be answered by the cattle producer, his family, and employees to develop a set of requirements for the computer system. The software design, and how well it is explained, will determine how much use people make of their computer. Timeliness is important in all agricultural operations such as planting, cultivating, harvesting, vaccinating, breeding, and feeding. Timeliness is equally important to data entry in the farm computer. The manager of a beef cow farming unit can become a more effective, efficient businessman by utilizing the modern microcomputer and its speed and capacity.
