Technology is changing the way we do business, and agriculture is no exception. To grow your farm and ranch in today’s world, understanding how technology can help you is important. [emember_protected custom_msg=”Click here and register now to read the rest of the article!”]
So, I’d like to focus on how computer software can help with everyday tasks related to your ag business. First, let’s look at planning software to help you track how your business hours are spent. Keeping track of appointments, and even your everyday to-do list, is made easier with a calendar. Instead of manually writing on one, you can automate the job with calendar software or an online planning system. For example, using Microsoft Office, you can receive a Desktop Alert of a pending meeting or task request.
Software also can help you spend your time wisely. Using time-tracking software, you can better evaluate what is profitable and what is not. This valuable information can be used to decide what jobs can be eliminated or made more efficient.
If following several different email addresses is a problem, these can be combined to boost efficiency as well.
To have Internet access from the field, you may want to consider a mobile device that allows you to follow up on business matters immediately, rather than when you get back to your office. And finally, accountant software is important so you can see profits and losses, helping you to design and maintain a budget.
CREDITS
column by BAXTER TROUTMAN
BIO: Baxter Troutman is founder and chief executive officer of Labor Solutions, a staffing company with offices in Bartow, Winter Haven, Lake Wales, and Arcadia. A citrus grower who served in the Florida House of Representatives, Troutman understands the challenges and concerns of today’s farmer. [/emember_protected]