In a comparison of milk parlors, how did parallels perform relative to herringbones?

Parallels, or parallel milking parlors, typically allow for a more efficient milking process compared to herringbone designs. The design of parallel parlors enables cows to stand side by side, which can facilitate more rapid cow entry and exit, ultimately reducing milking time. This layout often allows for better visibility and accessibility for the milker, contributing to increased cow comfort and effective management during the milking process.

Research and industry studies have indicated that parallel milking systems can lead to substantial improvements in milking efficiency, often surpassing the performance of herringbone systems. The statistic indicating that parallels outperformed herringbones by nearly 8 percent reflects such findings, confirming their efficiency. This performance difference can stem from factors such as reduced labor time, increased cow throughput, and possibly higher milk yields per milking session due to the effective milking strategy employed.

Overall, the indicated percentage underscores the advantages associated with the design and operation of parallel milking parlors, making it a favorable choice for dairy operations looking to optimize their milk production system.