The feeding system used for sows has a significant effect on the availability of sows’ key resource: food. Feeding systems are categorized as either competitive or non-competitive, depending on how feed is presented. These systems differ in initial cost, floor space requirements, group size and management requirements, thus it is important to select a system that works for your barn, herd size and management style. Planning is important, and in general you get what you pay for. Cutting costs during the renovation phase can result in a system that requires more labor and/or feed to operate in the long run.