On the cusp of spring planting in many areas, farmers are preparing to put their precision farming systems to the test. And in many cases, planter clinics have been cancelled or postponed this year, making it all the more important that farmers have alternative opportunities to get answers.

Diagnosing technology problems on ag equipment can be as much an art as it is a science. Compatibility and simplicity of systems can pose challenges, even for the most tech-savvy farmers. But for those willing and capable of troubleshooting precision problems, complemented by reliable dealer support, the ability to fix a technical issue can be a time and money-saving opportunity.

By and large, no-till farmers forecast a conservative approach to adding new equipment to their operation in 2020, especially precision technologies. Results of the 12th annual No-Till Operational Benchmark Study show that farmers generally plan to scale back use of precision farming tools and services on their cropping operations in the coming year.

Digital connectivity is taken for granted in many areas, but high-speed internet is still absent in many rural areas throughout the country.

What will the precision farming specialist of the future look like? How different will their role be within a dealership?

Managing a dealership hasn’t gotten any easier in recent years, and leadership within large and small-store operations are still scratching their heads over where to take their precision business in the future.

The logic of bigger is better with ag machinery comes with operational and economic considerations. Farmers have to weigh the efficiency of covering more acres with the cost of purchasing larger equipment. So at what point will ag machinery outgrow its investment value?

Assessing the performance and production of a precision farming team can take into account several factors. Customer service and communication skills are less quantifiable than sales volume and service hours billed.

One of the critical drivers of widespread adoption of autonomous ag technology will be cost vs. value. Like any new technology, there will be a learning curve and fusion onto the farm will be gradual. Dr. Scott Shearer, ag engineering professor at Ohio State University, doesn’t foresee automation being a wholesale replacement to human oversight on the farm.

Immediately following the release of its 5-year plan to significantly increase its investment in autonomous ag technologies, Raven Industries acted on that strategic plan with the acquisition of 2 independent autonomous companies.