There are basic statistical methods that producers could use to measure and reduce variation. Line graphs and scatter graphs can be created in Microsoft Excel and the regression tool can be used to measure variability of 2 variables (more sophisticated statistical programs can handle more than 2 variables). Standard deviation and especially the coefficient of variation (CV) are the most important tools for measuring variability in a production system. CV can be used to measure variability between 2 unlike processes (such as average daily gain and litter size) and can be calculated also using Microsoft Excel. Process behavior charting (a.k.a. Statistical Process Control, SPC, Control Charts) is one of the most effective tools available for monitoring farm performance and variation simultaneously. Process control charts allow demonstration of average performance and variation, for any production parameter. By doing so, they allow the farm management to focus their resources on the real problems. On process control charts, data points that deviate from average performance by a significant amount are called “signals”. Signals reflect events that have a true positive or negative impact on performance, and need to be investigated. Examples of the most functional charts for reducing variation and improving throughput includes reproductive performance, nursery and grow/finish performance, feeding programs, AI studs, feed mill performance, marketing, condition scoring, and industrial experimentation.