Although it is somewhat difficult to compare the impact of technology uptake over the years, the adoption of smartphones and now tablets is staggering.
There are now more smartphone users than PC users, and tablet adoption continues to outstrip anything seen before. Mobile devices will soon no longer be just another tool in the box but integrated into farming business systems.
All the major companies have now realised this potential and are moving away from designing their own single purpose devices.
Instead they are looking more closely at connecting to peripheral devices through wireless or Bluetooth, creating mobile ecosystems that empower the farmer so that he or she can collect and track onfarm performance through their mobile. They can turn on and off centre pivots, calculate drymatter, graze areas or even make decisions on nitrogen applications.
Arable is at the forefront of app development, mainly because of the global scale and the value of machinery, and the fertiliser companies involved. Also the symbiotic value of information such as weather data to the futures traders and farmers has meant some apps have been developed to provide more accurate detail than they may have otherwise. For example, the DTN weather app.
Regardless of the reason for mobile technology being so widely used, the more important question is: Are apps able to help your business?
This is a question only you can answer as every farmer has different drivers and decisions to make but one thing that continues to come up is the saying “if you don’t measure it you can’t manage it” – mobile technology is providing a platform that will enable onfarm data collection by anybody of any age or technical ability.
Looking ahead, the real emphasis needs to be put on quantifying the return on investment, not just of the technology but also of the time it takes to collect the data.
We also have to accept that if we want good-quality apps we have to be prepared to pay for them as they are not only expensive to develop but also to maintain. So like most things you get what you pay for, but for those willing to invest in mobile technology the future looks bright.
Below are a few useful free apps for New Zealand conditions relating to farm agronomy.
Banking apps
I strongly recommend starting with your bank’s app. Most banks now have apps that enable you to check balances, transfer money or make bill payments. This ensures you can keep your finger on the pulse anywhere, any time.
Google maps engine
This lets you or others, such as workers or contractors, view customised maps of your farm that you have built online. You can also use it for calculating distances, areas, marking points of interest and much more.
AgDNA
This is an easy-to-use mobile paddock record-keeping app that links to your online account. This is a powerful tool providing a valuable history of what, where and when you have performed activities on the farm.
Area calculator
A quick simple way to work out the area of a paddock using google maps and your phone’s GPS.
Yara CheckIT
This can be used to reference photos and descriptions when crops appear deficient in a nutrient. See what is needed to ensure you fix the problem quickly. Great for market gardening, cereal and lucerne crops.
Tank mix calculator
A quantity surveying app for chemical application. Totals with ease the required amounts, number of loads and the chemical applied. It also lets you keep records of application history.
YR and DTN/PF Ag
A detailed accurate weather forecast specific to your farm.
Fertiliser removal
Gives a breakdown of the nutrients removed by any crop at the goal yield specified.
Wotif
This may be the most important app on your device as sometimes the best thing you can do for the long-term productivity of your farm is to have a break.
