Getting certified as an organic farmer is a lengthy process. The farmer must demonstrate over multiple growing seasons what his crops will yield and how he cares for them. This process is expensive and time-consuming, meaning that most farmers must devote significant time to the task once they commit to it. One way to make that system a bit easier is to use a VPN, or virtual private network, between workers on a farm.
These workers can use data-capable phones or tablet computers to record information about their crops. Being able to record this information is beneficial for a number of reasons.
First using a VPN allows the farmers to carry a small phone or tablet rather than a notebook and pen, making the process simply easier logistically to carry out. Another issue, too, is that the information can be collated into electronic data quickly.
Someone can work on turning these data points into information that can be used to analyze crop. Having this information earlier in the day allows a farmer to employ someone to work on this task. Also it means that solo farmers don’t have to come in after a day of work and try to read every ones handwriting. All of the information is recorded neatly and uniformly, which will save time and money.
Finally using a VPN to connect to the internet and record crop observations avoids problems, such as lost or rained on papers, because farmers can retrieve the data from any computer and can protect their phones or computers more easily than a notebook.
VPNs aren’t just a tool for white-collar employees to check in with the boss. They are a way America’s farmers can move forward and save a little time. This network can mean new income streams and certifications for small and mid-sized farmers.