Methods

International Farm Comparison Network (IFCN)** methodology is applied for the dairy farm and dairy sector analysis.

For the better understanding of dairy farming systems “Technology Impact Policy Impact Calculations Model (TIPICAL)’’ is used which was originally developed by T. Hemme (2000). Further development was done by IFCN researchers in 2019-2020.  It serves as production and accounting model which is a think tool for better understanding of the dairy world.

It applies the principles of Farm Level Income and Policy Simulation model (FLIPSIM) which was first used by Texas A & M University of USA.

TIPICAL model is a basis of the International Farm Comparison Network (IFCN). It comprises of three pillars :

a)Typical farm approach (TFA)

b)TIPICAL Model 

c)Concept of dairy Network

TFA has three elements:

a)Defining typical farm 

b)Selection of the typical farm

c)Selection of the typical farm

Application of this method:

-Ranking and comparability at farm, national and international levels for an unlimited sample of farms

-Applied in area where very little data on dairying is available

-Micro economic analysis

-Farm economics relating economics and non-economics parameters

-Applied for normative analysis (Market analysis, carbon footprint, water footprint, other environment related issues)