Description
Ida is an AI assistant that has been developed for the dairy sector and that uses artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies to learn the behaviours of each cow and translate large volumes of complex data into actionable insights related to health, fertility and farm operations. The real-time delivery of such information allows farmers, advisors and industry stakeholders to make timely and better-informed decisions, leading to more efficient, productive and ultimately sustainable farm operations.
Technology
Ida combines animal behaviour data (standing, walking, lying, eating, ruminating, etc.) garnered by sensors on the cows’ collars with data from other sources (e.g., farm management systems, sorting gates and milking robots), farmer feedback and weather data. Ida’s artificial intelligence and predictive intelligence technology then processes the data using trademark machine learning algorithms and transforms them into actionable insights related to fertility, health and operational issues. The data is then presented to the user’s devices via a user-friendly app.
Target
Connecterra has seen the adoption of the Ida app by such sectoral giants as Danone, Bayer and food safety expert Kersia. The product is available in several countries, and is in use by farmers of various sizes. Its start-up costs make the solution more suitable for medium- and large-scale farmers.
Business model
Ida is available with two monthly subscription plans. The Starter plan offers basic features with a start-up fee of USD 42 per cow and a regular monthly fee of USD 3.50 per cow, per month. The Pro plan, on the other hand, has additional features and has a start-up fee of USD 55 per cow and a monthly subscription fee of USD 4.50 per cow, per month. A Flex plan is also available, through which the start-up costs are covered under a monthly subscription.
Impact
Connecterra’s Ida app supports farmers in making better informed decisions, thus driving productivity and increasing sustainability. Ida can identify health issues two days before they become apparent to humans, allowing a reduction of over 60 percent in antibiotic usage and reducing labour costs by 20 percent per month. Ida also connects farmers to the value chain whilst increasing animal welfare and improving farm efficiency.
Partners
ABS Global; Lely, Farming for Generations
Four Betters
Better production
Better environment
