By definition, the word multitasking describes a concept of performing multiple tasks (processes) over a certain period of time by executing them concurrently. New tasks start and interrupt already started ones before they have reached completion, instead of executing the tasks sequentially so each started task needs to reach its end before a new one is started. As a result, one executes segments of multiple tasks in an interleaved manner, while the tasks share common processing resources.
Multitasking does not necessarily mean that multiple tasks are executing at exactly the same time (simultaneously), but it implies some level of parallel execution. In other words, it means that more than one task can be part-way through execution at the same time, and that more than one task is advancing over a given period of time.
Applying to ration formulation the concepts described above, with the aim of providing new operational procedures, the development group at RUM&N, designed a new and alternative approach to recipe formulation called Multitasking Recipes Manager.
The tool is designed to actively compare, side by side, several versions of a recipe formulated for a specific animal type. From a functional standpoint, every time you change something relate to feed type, feed amounts, feed costs or animal type (animal inputs, activity, environment) for a specific version, the system runs all the calculations and the outputs of that specific version will be updated, while the other versions will remain unchanged. Through this approach, it is possible to dynamically compare, in a single screen, what impact may have specific inputs compared to others, dramatically increasing productivity and the decision-making process of the formulation.