V.DIG.0020-Phase 2: Development of a single processor data feed
A single data schema has been generated that represents carcase data (and related entities including processing lots and consignments) in the one format.
| Project start date: | 17 December 2020 |
| Project end date: | 29 May 2021 |
| Publication date: | 14 February 2022 |
| Project status: | Completed |
| Livestock species: | Grain-fed Cattle, Grass-fed Cattle, Sheep, Goat, Lamb |
| Relevant regions: | National |
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Summary
An initial piece of work was completed by the provider that delivered a single carcase data scheme with the data requirements for NLIS, LDL, MSA and animal disease reporting. The purpose of phase 2 is to refine and build on the single carcase feedback data dictionary and schema to make sure that MSA Next Generation, Genetics R&D, animal disease and DEXA requirements are incorporated.
Objectives
The primary objective of this project was to develop a single data schema that could support delivery of carcase data from processors into MLA Group systems, with the aim of reducing effort, costs, manual errors and increasing data quality and security. Delivering this objective would involve:
• Documenting the current state data flows for the various types of carcase data provided to MLA programmes, including NLIS, LDL, MSA, DEXA and disease and defect data.
• Reviewing and aligning the data specifications for the MLA programmes that would be required in a single data schema.
• Proposing a conceptual data schema that would meet the data transfer needs.
• Documenting proposed future state data flows and testing these at a conceptual level with MLA.
• Preparing a case study to walk through how the new schema might work using input from processors and/or processing software vendors.
• Making recommendations to MLA, including identification of risks to data agreements from moving to the new data schema.
Key findings
The project demonstrated that it is feasible to create a new representation of carcase feedback data that can address the combined needs of NLIS, LDL, MSA, Disease and Defect, and Objective Measurement (Lean Meat Yield) programmes. The conceptual data model produced will allow the schema to be extended as new observations and measurement methods are defined and standardised.
Importantly, the extensible data model will allow processors to only supply data that they have collected and in line with the data sharing agreements they might have with MLA. For instance, processors handling only sheep data would not supply beef data observations, and vice versa. Processors that have not signed an MSA data agreement would not need to send MSA-specific data fields, nor would they receive MSA Index data in return. The same approach can be applied to other programmes, such as the Objective Measurement (Lean Meat Yield) programme.
Benefits to industry
The project has generated a single data schema that can represent carcase data (and related entities including processing lots and consignments) in a generalised and extensible way. Combined with effective Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) to connect systems, use of the schema will:
1. Remove current redundant data handling and software interfaces for processors and software vendors as they interact with several MLA programme solutions
2. Support the addition of future measurements, technologies and standards within the framework
3. Reduce the burden carried by multiple processors, software vendors and MLA products in maintaining multiple data integrations
4. Support a greater degree of automated data reconciliation and more timely data correction, which will reduce manual processes and shorten the time to delivery of feedback
5. Allow MLA to move with greater agility to evolve its programme solutions over time while maintaining a consistent interface for processors.
MLA action
An internal workshop needs to occur with key ISC and MLA product teams to scope out the requirements to develop the single carcase data schema to proceed with a pilot program with at least two potential processors and their software vendors. A pilot program of work will need to be developed to test and validate the single carcase data schema to ensure it is going work from a commerical perspective.
Future research
Industry consultation and the further engagement with software vendors as the case study was developed demonstrated that software vendors and at least some processors have a level of enthusiasm for adopting both the schema and a consistent process for delivering carcase data to MLA.
Rezare Systems’ primary recommendation is that MLA should proceed forward with a pilot development, creating the framework for an MLA carcase API using the schema collaboratively with at least two potential users (processors and processing software vendors). The pilot should be carried out collaboratively and use a transparent and agile approach to facilitate learning and increase trust with processors and software vendors.
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For more information: Contact Project Manager: Verity Suttor |
