3 Keys to the Agriculture Data Revolution

The world population is growing. By 2050 experts expect the population to reach 10 million people worldwide. More people mean more people to feed, yet while the population grows, the amount of arable farm ground will not. The agricultural industry must increase production by 70% to feed that population. The sector is tasked with growing two stalks of corn where the previous generation grew one. How do we do that?

It seems impossible, but the agtech is showing us otherwise.

In short, farming must be more efficient.  Increasing efficiency means embracing agriculture data technology. Precision agriculture, predictive analytics, and agriculture decision support systems (DDS) are transforming farming and driving the change that will boost productivity. 

Precision Agriculture: Farming practices collecting the data.  

Precision agriculture is all about using data technology to bring greater accuracy and efficiency to farming practices. It is a management style focusing on accurate and controlled farming. The fundamental tenant of this approach is using information technology and on-farm data to make informed decisions. The data is collected from GPS guidance, control systems, sensors, robotics, drones, autonomous vehicles, variable rate technology, GPS-based soil sampling, automated hardware, telematics, and software – to name a few. 

Predictive Analytics: Making predictions based on the data. 

Predictive analytics is another way data technology is changing farming. By analyzing data from a range of sources, often coming from precision agriculture tools, weather forecasts, soil types, and crop genetics, farmers can make better decisions about how to grow crops. For example, suppose a farmer knows that a particular crop variety is susceptible to a specific disease. In that case, they can take steps to minimize the risk of an outbreak, such as applying a particular pesticide at the right time. By predicting and preventing problems, farmers can reduce risks and losses, leading to a more efficient and sustainable farming industry.

Decision Support Systems: The system that supports data-based decision-making. 

The third key is how data technology is driving change is using decision support systems. A decision support system is an interactive, computer-based tool designed to assist users in making better decisions by providing relevant information, analysis, and recommendations. DDS can help farmers make better decisions, from planting and harvesting times to which crops to grow. A DSS combines data from on-farm data sources, user input, and sophisticated algorithms to generate insights to aid decision-making. By analyzing data from a range of sources, farmers can make evidence-based decisions that are both cost-effective and sustainable.

The use of data technology in farming is transforming the way we produce food. By combining precision agriculture, predictive analytics, and decision support systems, farmers make better-informed decisions that maximize productivity while minimizing environmental impact.

As the world population grows, finding ways to produce food more efficiently and sustainably is more important than ever. Data technology promises to play a crucial role in achieving this goal, and we can expect to see further innovation in this area. Ultimately, the future of farming is being shaped by data technology, which is great news for farmers, consumers, and the planet