By 2034, it’s estimated that farms will generate more than 4 million data points in a single day. How is this possible? Smart technology and advanced cloud tech are unlocking access to high quantities of highly accurate data for farms to analyze. This information is essential for proper implementation of farm operations and increasing efficiency across all management areas.
Introducing cloud tech capabilities to your farm operation can help you streamline your business practices and make informed decisions while staying connected to both your team and your customers. Here’s what you need to know.
Quick Links
- Farm ERP Innovations Through Cloud Tech
- The Link Between Farmers and Their Data
- Are Farmers Ready for Cloud Tech?
- Explore Cloud Tech with FBS and MASA
Farm ERP Innovations Through Cloud Tech
One of the latest advancements in farm management technology is the introduction of cloud capabilities within enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. To effectively run a farm, operators need to optimize and monitor their practices. This includes everything from field activities, farm financial reporting, sales information, and inventory control, to name a few. Farm ERP systems allow farmers to manage all aspects of their farm on a single software system. Plus, this software is customizable to meet the needs of your business.
In order for these systems to work efficiently, they need to have data to work with. Thanks to remote agricultural sensors and cloud tech capabilities, essential data can be connected to and organized within your ERP software. Cloud tech also makes this data easily accessible for the teams that need to see it. With accessibility controls, managers, vendors, and other staff members can be granted access to customized dashboards that are designed to analyze critical data metrics.
Additionally, cloud tech relies on servers to house this data. These collections of servers can link to devices within your operations, so you can access the same information across multiple screens. With this feature, your team has a new opportunity to collaborate digitally and share important information regarding farm operations. Plus, the highly accurate data features promote informed decision making across all aspects of your farm or ranch.
All of these technological advancements are helping farmers change the way they conduct their business. Instead of relying on out-dated spreadsheets and slow communication systems, ERP software with cloud capabilities encourages increased productivity and profitability, as well as a more accurate picture of your business.
The Link Between Farmers and Their Data
Data is one of the most important factors that drive decision making on a farm. Without accurate data, farmers won’t have a reliable understanding of the status of their farm data or be able to complete transactions with vendors and customers. A deep understanding of farm operations as a result of a wide range of data metrics unlocks new opportunities for farmers. Let’s take a closer look at how cloud tech is fostering a new age of data analysis.
Collaboration
According to the 2020 Purdue study on farm data usage, more than 70% of respondents reported that they share farm data with at least one service provider. With this in mind, it comes as no surprise that farmers are seeking assistance from outside advisors to help make recommendations for their farms. With data collected through cloud technology, this information can be easily shared to the stakeholders that need to view it.
Take, for instance, the use of digital twins. A digital replica of a farm provides a working environment where operators and stakeholders can simulate changes before introducing them to the real operation. This collaborative space means that teams can work together to find a suitable solution for business challenges while minimizing the risk of implementing these changes without first testing them. When this space can be accessed via cloud servers, collaborators can access the same tools and work with the same data to find the best solution for their needs.
Global Connectivity
Cloud computing technology is making entire farm operations more connected than ever. Agriculture is a global industry, and farmers need to be able to connect with vendors and customers around the world. Luckily, cloud computing and new digital technologies are making these interactions possible. On top of that, these sales can occur more frequently and more efficiently, thanks to easy information sharing.
According to McKinsey & Company, “agriculture connectivity could unlock more than $500 billion in GDP by 2030” as a result of proper implementation of connectivity tools, such as cloud tech. As the demand for produce and livestock increases, farmers can use cloud tech to provide their services to new audiences. Plus, cloud tech offers reliable data that are essential for developing relationships with potential customers and vendors. The ability to deliver certainty in the form of up-to-date information allows farmers to meet the expectations of their trading partners and provide high-quality products and services.
Rapid Development
Precision agriculture thanks to remote sensors provide farms with real-time data on their crops and livestock. Recent advancements in ag tech are introducing algorithms that can make predictions regarding crop health, pesticide use, and harvest timelines. With this technology, farmers can estimate how much water is needed for their crops as well as determine how much pesticide is needed to keep their crops healthy without harming the surrounding land.
Such knowledge regarding resources allows farmers to reduce their waste and operate at an optimized level of efficiency. Making these decisions can cut back on unnecessary resources, such as unused equipment, and make room for growth within the business.
Are Farmers Ready for Cloud Tech?
While cloud tech is helping farmers grow their businesses rapidly and effectively manage their data, there are a few concerns that need to be addressed. Cloud tech isn’t the perfect solution, at least not for all farmers. Machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) features are still in their infancy, meaning there is a lot of room for improvement as we continue to explore new tools.
One such drawback is the use of cloud servers. Since data is a critical component of farm analysis and growth, it of course makes sense that farmers are feeling protective over their private information. Some cloud technologies utilize public servers, which introduce concerns over data breaches and loss of essential information. However, one of the biggest potential risks of relying on cloud connections is the possibility of losing control or access to your data if the cloud hosting service changes ownership, or even worse, goes out of business.
Ultimately, the goal of farm technology is to better optimize all aspects of farm management, but it will take a long time for this to be a commonality throughout the entire agricultural industry. Data-driven decisions are important for operational growth, but some of these tools are not readily available for all farmers. While implementing farm ERP systems can be a long-term solution for farm management, the up-front expenses might become a problem for small or new farming businesses.
Explore Cloud Tech with FBS and MASA
Cloud tech is making data more accessible and expanding the possibilities for operational analysis. With a snapshot of how your farm operations are running, you will have the information needed to determine where aspects of your business can be improved. Additionally, the increased connectivity among team members, stakeholders, and entire farm operations allows for new insights to be shared and analyzed.
The ERP solutions from FBS Systems keep cloud computing technology in the hands of farmers through the Mutual Agricultural Software Alliance (MASA). With integrated tools, you can quickly generate reports, review inventory, and manage vendors all on a single device. Plus, with cloud tech, you can share vital information with the people that need to see it. To learn more about cloud tech software from FBS, get in touch with our team today!
