Crop management software firm, Pear Agri, has relaunched with a new director and new software package.
Somerset farmer, Charlie Farrington, joined the firm last summer and is now revamping the business with a new cloud-based software system for use by farmers, agronomists and contractors. “My background is in both farming and engineering after completing a degree in Engineering at Durham University,” says Mr Farrington. “After leaving my job with AGCO and moving back home to our family arable farm, I did some work with Pear Technology, who offer digital mapping, and was introduced to Pear Agri.
“I realised there was a need to progress the software that was being used – farmers and agronomists need mobile apps and cloud-based software – and eventually joined the business with John Edwards last summer.”
Mr Edwards, who also hails from a farming background, developed the first version of their crop recording software in 1998, and is still involved with the firm, however Mr Farrington plans to grow the business and push the boundaries on functionality with a new software programme. “With the way technology and regulations are moving, there are obvious benefits of automated crop management software,” explains Mr Farrington. “Using modern cloud-based software saves time and reduces the risk of errors, taking away one of many burdens that farming professionals face at busy times of the year.”
The new cloud-based crop recording software is still under development but is expected to be ready for sales later this year. It follows on from the firm’s existing programmes and will offer a cost effective, simple data recording solution – with the added benefit of being cloud-based, explains Mr Farrington. “The programme will be available in three formats for use by farmers, agronomists and contractors. Being cloud-based, those with the required access will be able to view the latest records as they are updated.
When the agronomist creates a spray recommendation, the farmer (and contractor) will be automatically notified of a new task to complete. Using the app in the field, the spray operator can add in factors such as the weather and timings, to the recommendation and this will update the farmer’s records and inform the agronomist it has been completed.
“There is no need for any paper recommendations and duplicating of data,” he says. “Contractors can use it in the same way and depending on the hours or hectares worked, it will calculate the cost and send an invoice.”
Available via a web version and offline desktop, mobile and tablet apps, the programme also offers machinery costings to calculate operation expenditure, as well as financial and assurance reports – including year-end valuation and gross margins. In addition, users will benefit from access to the LIAISON pesticide database to ensure compliance, and a fertiliser planner module based on the RB209 guide.
Farmers will be able to get a first glance of the pre-release version at this year’s Cereals Event, where the firm is exhibiting on stand 351. “We’re looking forward to meeting both old and new customers at Cereals this year to showcase the exciting technology that’s on the horizon.”
