In search of a simple, yet satisfying explanation of the Internet of Things (IoT) it seemed logical to scour the one place I was sure to find an answer; the internet.

During the last several years, a growing majority of dealers have either established a separate department for precision farming or designated a precision farming specialist as the primary salesperson for ag technology.

In search of a simple, yet satisfying explanation of the Internet of Things (IoT) it seemed logical to scour the one place I was sure to find an answer; the Internet.

Collecting aerial imagery in agriculture has increased in recent years with the emergence of unmanned aerial vehicles and more sophisticated infrared and remote sensing tools. However, challenges remain as to how timely captured data can be processed and utilized for in-season crop management decisions.

We all know that good help is hard to find. But it’s also hard to keep. This has long been a challenge for dealerships, regardless of size, brand or location.

One of the more buzzworthy terms in the consumer business world is Internet of Things, or IoT for short. While a bit ambiguous, the IoT trend is taking off with integrated voice activation tools and in agriculture with companies moving conceptual designs into commercial development.

Verizon announced that it plans to phase out its 2G and 3G networks by 2021 and transition customers into its LTE network. This isn’t a new revelation and other providers are following suit. But as the sunset dates near, it’s got the attention of GPS and auto-steering suppliers in the ag industry.

Widespread availability of fully autonomous vehicles in agriculture may still be several years away. But in recent years, companies have publicly showcased self-driving innovations, advancing development to the cusp of commercial production.

Walking the aisles at this year’s Farm Progress Show in Decatur, Ill., there were the usual new equipment innovations on display. But it’s the behind-the-scenes developments that also caught my attention, specifically how precision manufacturers are integrating more automation and connectivity into their products.