Since the mid 2000s, Orchid Farm Tech software has allowed farmers to input information like calvings, bullings and other such data into a mobile device whilst on the go, synchronising with their desktop database when back in the office. In 2012, Orchid partnered with Belfast based FarmWizard in anticipation of the growing trend of cloud and mobile based computing in agriculture. The Orchid FarmWizard system for Dairy, Beef and Sheep was born!
FarmWizard Farm Management Software
Dairy
Dairy farming these days is not without its complexities. With the ever growing trend for larger herd sizes, there is an awful lot of data that needs to be quickly and accurately recorded and shared. Keeping up to date information that is needed for the likes of Farm Assurance, DEFRA and RPA, not to mention keeping your vet and dairy nutritionist in the loop, can become a full time job in itself. With links to CTS, HUK, CIS, NMR, VetImpress and parlour, plus consultant access, Orchid FarmWizard for Dairy’s web-based system makes keeping people updated for performance monitoring and cross compliance a breeze. Because the system is web-based, information can be viewed on a tablet or mobile device pretty much anywhere, and even if internet access is problematic, information can be easy synchronised when you get back to the office and within range of a wifi connection.
Beef
Beef farming enterprises require a recording system capable of not only handling the demands of cross compliance and farm assurance, but also allows for physical and financial performance monitoring. Purchase prices, feeding and other associated costs can be recorded and shared quickly and easily allowing the true profitability of your enterprise to be seen. Because Orchid FarmWizard is a web-based system, your cattle records can be done on any computer platform (PC, Mac or tablet) and for added convenience, you can also use your smartphone (iPhone, android or blackberry) to input new information while out and about on the farm.
Sheep
Electronic identification (EID) can seem overwhelming to farmers that have not used it before to help run their sheep enterprise. However, with a little research and some planning, it is possible to tailor a system for any sheep enterprise, large or small. The two main benefits of using an EID system are, firstly, to help with the recording of flock performance data enabling better management decisions and improving profitability, and secondly, it allows the recording and maintaining of accurate statutory records whilst also being a great time saver by cutting labour costs. Although there is no legal obligation to purchase electronic tag reading equipment, with sole responsibility for accurate records down to the farmer alone, it is being considered a very worthwhile investment. With improved ease and speed of recording, better traceability, more accurate records and time saving costs, it really is worth due consideration.