One of the most powerful tools farmers and agronomists possess is right in the palm of our hands. With instant access to weather and market reports, equipment schematics, and almost any digital publication known to man, our smart phones are a valuable resource that, without a doubt, can help us improve our efficiencies and profitability. With more than 2.5 million apps available, choosing which will be the most beneficial can be a huge undertaking.
One of the simplest ways apps can increase efficiency is housing all your crop information in one, easy-to-access location. The FARMserver app from Beck’s allows users to view and update information from their FARMserver account on the go. Farmers can upload planting records, application information (spray, spread, NH3, etc.), prescriptions, and harvest data through any web-connected device. That information will then automatically sync between your mobile app and secure FARMserver account. Farmers can access this data while in the field to help with management decisions and identifying hybrids. The scouting notes function in the app also allows users to drop a pin in a location, add pictures and text, and share that information instantly with their suppliers or agronomist. FARMserver will also log weather events and GDUs to help users better understand the “Why?” in certain field situations. FARMserver is a free service to all Beck’s corn and soybean customers.
Just like any technology, the app market is evolving very quickly, and is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Finding the right apps that work for you can be a simple way to increase efficiency and access valuable information, using a resource most of us have already…our smart phone!
By Jon Skinner, CCA – Field Agronomist