Abstract We argue that inefficiency can be part of a strategic self-repositioning adjustment process beyond the general interpretation of poor performance. Based on the rational inefficiency hypothesis, we examine the simultaneous dynamics of efficiency and animal welfare improving investments over time in dairy farms. Using rotating panel data from Swedish dairy farms and implementing multidirectional efficiency analysis and Markov transitional dynamic analysis, the paper provides evidence that for some farms inefficiency is temporary and part of rational decision along their trajectory towards multi-efficiency (high efficiency-high animal welfare). The findings show the importance of time dynamics in efficiency achievements with implications to cross-sectional view.

中文翻译：

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合理化奶制品生产的低效率：来自长期方法的证据

摘要我们认为，低效率可能是战略自我重新定位调整过程的一部分，超出了对绩效不佳的一般解释。基于理性低效率假设，我们研究了效率和动物福利随着时间的推移改善奶牛场投资的同时动态。使用来自瑞典奶牛场的旋转面板数据并实施多向效率分析和马尔可夫过渡动态分析，该论文提供的证据表明，对于一些农场来说，低效率是暂时的，并且是其朝着多效率（高效率-高动物福利）轨迹的理性决策的一部分. 研究结果显示了时间动态在效率成就中的重要性，并对横截面视图产生了影响。