Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
breed dimorphism result in large differences
in energy and nutrient requirements, and
the large range of market weights ranging
from 6 kg to 20 kg create challenges in ac-
curate prediction/simulation. Models must
be sufficiently flexible to respond to these
different types of production.
The present chapter addresses the main
questions that need to be answered during
the different phases of model development
and application in order to maximize the
success of research or commercial applica-
tions of turkey models. The following steps
for developing and applying models are de-
scribed: (i) framework description; (ii) model
development; (iii) evaluation; and (iv) appli-
cation. Although the turkey is taken as an
example, the methodology can be applied to
other species.
(i.e. researchers or business representa-
tives), the users and the scientists who de-
velop the model. Each of these stakeholders
may have different needs and expecta-
tions, and therefore face different challenges
The decision makers are the individuals
who make the final judgement on which
decision is to be made depending on the
model simulation results performed by the
user. To optimize their production and min-
imize the risk in decision making, they ex-
pect the model to be precise and accurate.
Their challenge lies in understanding the
strengths and limitations of the model to help
make the appropriate decisions.
As a response to the decision makers'
needs and objectives, the role of the users
consists of exploring and comparing alter-
native strategies (i.e. 'what-if' simulations).
To facilitate model application, the users
expect the model to be friendly and easy to
apply. Their challenge lies in accessing data
that will facilitate the adjustment of the
model to different situations/production
conditions. User training and application
are key factors in successful application by
the user, and will ensure that the simulated
outputs are well understood and interpreted
by the user.
Framework Description
Defining needs and expectations
Understanding the needs and expectations
of the stakeholders of the model is crucial to
ensure successful model application. The term
'stakeholders' refers to the decision makers
Table 8.1.
Roles, needs, expectations, key success factors and challenges for decision makers, users and
scientists of turkey models.
Decision makers
Users
Scientists
Role
Decide on recommended
changes from users to attain
technical or economic
performance objectives
Make recommendations
to the decision makers
Understand user and
decision maker needs
and develop the model
accordingly
Needs
Optimize growth and feeding
programme for maximum
profitability (business needs)
Understand bird's response and
adapt recommendations
Adapt the model to the
different situations
encountered in the field
Explore alternatives for
attaining economic
or technical objectives
Understand model
application
Expectations
Precision and accuracy
Friendly interface
Model easy to apply
Data availability
Challenge
Understand the strengths and
limitations of the model
Data collection
Model calibration
Key success
factors
Awareness
User training and frequent
application
Driving force and input
definition
