Momentum for autonomy in ag continues to accelerate with driverless systems being developed and demonstrated. However, over the past 6 months, companies have adapted the pace of progress to accommodate the unavoidable impact of COVID-19.

Although many precision farming specialists are in the thick of spring planting and logging long hours, the growing season can create a service void for precision teams prior to preparing for fall harvest. But even amidst the socioeconomic challenges confronting the ag industry, there are revenue opportunities dealers can pursue to bridge the seasonal gap for precision farming employees.

Network sharing is a way for national wireless operators to reduce their network cost structure in rural America. The average cost of a new tower can cost upwards of $200,000 for a single company. Splitting the cost among 3 companies would allow operators to provide coverage in rural areas at a third of the cost.

On the cusp of spring planting, dealerships are facing the dilemma of accepting the new reality of social distancing and self-quarantine, or taking advantage of the tools and talent they have to continue delivering high-quality service to farm customers.

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.