Water management software can make keeping track of the finances and other records for the water resources of your business easier. Some of these software programs are for use on a laptop or desktop computer. Others use it in conjunction with a cell phone or hand held GPS device.

In order to make the most of the water software you purchase for your business, you should pick the one that fits all your needs. Keep these suggestions in mind to help you pick the software that best fits your business:

1. Try the water management software before you buy it to make sure it is a good fit.

2. Keep track of the effect of various irrigation methods on your finances by incorporating an accounting program into your software suite.

3. Record data in the field with mobile irrigation software programs.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Download a trial version of the software for irrigation

Every water software program has different features. Downloading the program before you buy it allows you to try out the features to make sure that your needs are met. While some companies offer limited use free trials, many companies offer full version free trials. When you download a trial version, only input your information into the software if you think you will purchase the full version. This will save you a lot of time since you can upgrade most free trials to paid versions without losing any information.

I recommend: Farm Trends is a water software supplier. This company offers a free trial of their water distribution software program. This program includes an irrigation software program as well as planting programs and harvesting programs. Science Hill is an irrigation software supplier that offers a free trial on the WaterMark Pro software. This software has a design feature that allows you to design your irrigation system. It also gives you an estimate of the time and cost involved with implementing the system.

Add an accounting program to your water management software suite

Adding an accounting program to your water management program is a way for you to keep detailed records of financial transactions. Many of these programs have detailed report features that allow you to track your income to expense ratio. Some of these programs link with financial programs, such as Quicken to simplify record keeping.

I recommend: Insight Direct offers a program that allows you to prepare invoices and accept credit card payments from customers while in the field. Software Republic sells the Irricalc water management software program. This program calculates information based on the historical evapotranspiration in your area. A free trial is available for this program.

Consider using mobile water software programs

When you are out in the field, having a mobile water management software program can simplify your record keeping as you can input information directly into the program instead of having to write it down and input it later. You can use most mobile programs with a GPS device, such as TomTom, and then linked to a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi enabled computer.

I recommend: The Service Program has a water software program that allows you invoice customers and manage contracts on any Internet enabled device. This program integrates with QuickBooks to enable you to keep duplicate records and transfer information between the two programs as needed. AquaQuote offers a dual version of its water management software. You can use the program on your computer or your PDA. Information can be exchanged from one device to another as the program is online.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Make sure that all of your water management software can link together or integrate to avoid having to input information multiple times.