As a single-store John Deere dealership with 2 precision specialists, Eis Implement prides itself on efficiency. Eric Hagenow, precision farming specialist, shares how he proactively plans aspects of each day and also opportunities to improve customer service in the future.

In the heat of planting, efficiency is key and making sure customers are comfortable in the field. Eric Hagenow, precision farming specialist with Eis Implement in Two Rivers, Wis., details his approach to ensuring farmers are satisfied with service and in-field support.

Spud Armstrong, Precision Farming Manager for Ag Technologies in Rochester, Ind., explains the need to justify investment into a precision department and establishing avenues for dealership revenue. Charging for phone services has proven to be an effective method for Armstrong, including a $30 per-call flat fee for multi-step precision inquiries and a $400 annual option for frequent customers.

Spud Armstrong, Precision Farming Manager for Ag Technologies in Rochester, Ind., breaks down the various steps, benefits and requirements to successfully installing an RTK base. Working in collaboration with the New Holland dealer group in Indiana, Armstrong says adding stations to the New Holland RTK+ cellular network has provided five times more area for RTK coverage and sales opportunities.

Spud Armstrong, Precision Farming Manager for Ag Technologies in Rochester, Ind., walks through the diagnosis and reparation process for malfunctioning boom valves on an Apache AS1020 sprayer. Sprayer maintenance, Armstrong says, is a common post-harvest task as growers attempt to complete fall burndown in the field.

A proactive approach to troubleshooting technology problems even before they occur can minimize the time spent on a customer’s farm during the busiest times of year. Selling and supporting a variety of precision service packages allows John Cooper, precision farming manager with Swiderski Equipment to increase efficiency and profitability when in the field.

Planning for the unexpected comes with the territory for precision specialist. For John Cooper, precision farming manager with Swiderski Equipment, being able to draw on 8 years as a farm equipment mechanic is an asset to overcoming mechanical obstacles encountered during a precision installation.

As a precision farming business grows, equipment dealerships may decide to make this area an independent revenue stream. This is the approach Swiderski Equipment and precision farming manager John Cooper took with its precision business, seeing revenue triple to close to $1.5 million during the last 5 years.

Precision specialists tend to be busy year-round, but when it comes to training new employees, planting season is often an excellent test of stamina, problem-solving skills and technological aptitude. As the precision farming manager for Swiderski Equipment, John Cooper understands the seasonal rigors of long-hours, increased responsibility and the need for constant communication with new hires.

Darin Kennelly with Birkey's Farm Store explains how the dealership has grown to develop a tight communication network so that the precision specialists use each other as resources in each of their areas of expertise.