Agriculture database software can make keeping track of the finances and other records for your business easier. Some of these software programs are for use on a laptop or desktop computer. You can use others in conjunction with a cell phone or handheld GPS device.

In order to make the most of the agricultural database management 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 agriculture database management software before you buy it to make sure it is a good fit.

2. Keep track of finances by incorporating an accounting program into your software suite.

3. Record data in the field with a mobile agriculture database application.

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

Download a free version of the agricultural database software

Every agriculture database 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 offers a free trial of their agriculture database software program. This program includes an irrigation software program as well as planting programs and harvesting programs. Winplant Software offers an all-inclusive agriculture database solution that links with many other agriculture software programs. You can contact the company to request a free demo of the program.

Add an accounting program to your ag database software suite

Adding an accounting program to your agriculture database software 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: Specialized Data Systems has an all-inclusive financial software program that includes integrated applications. This program allows you to input lists of vendors, employees, contractors, customers, expenses and income. You have the option of printing out up to 12 months worth of detailed reports that make it easy to see where your money comes from and goes. Red Wing Software has a full line of agriculture database software that you can customize by simply contacting the company.

Think about using mobile agriculture databases

When you are out in the field, having a mobile agriculture database 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 link to a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi enabled computer.

I recommend: Farm Works offers a full line of agricultural database management software products, including a mobile version. This company offers support via phone or email. Precision Agronomics offers the SST line of mobile agriculture software. This line of software includes a detailed database for agriculture function, which generates detailed reports instantly. Additionally, these programs can link to a computer or integrate with many other database programs.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Make sure that all of your agricultural database software links together or integrates to avoid having to input information multiple times.