Farmplan, a leading agricultural software specialist, has released the Cattle Manager Go app for smartphones and tablets, allowing Cattle Manager users to access records and make notes even without a signal.
“Cattle Manager Go is designed to support users out on the farm,” said Sally Ashwell, development support manager at Farmplan. “It’s the perfect extension of Cattle Manager, helping you to improve profitability and manage your herd accurately and effectively.”
The new app enables data sharing between the Cattle Manager software and Cattle Manager Go via the cloud. Users can choose from a list of useful information in the desktop program and synchronise it to their smart devices.
“You can send every animal if you prefer or sort by batches and breeds,” said Ms Ashwell. “You can also select predefined actions like drug treatments, movements, anything to do with health. Essentially, you have access to as much or as little information as suits you.”
Once the download process is complete, the smart device can be used out on the farm, without signal or WiFi. Details for each cow, including ID, age, breed, category and purchase history can be pulled up with a tap, alongside any medical treatments. Next of kin still on the farm can also be found using the app.
“You can also record data in addition to accessing it,” she added. “New births can be entered, along with their tag numbers, sex, and other crucial details. Any potential actions such as medical treatment and diary notes are presented as a list on the device and can be applied to selected animals.
“For example, you can tick off animals as they are moved or pre-set to specify particular drug treatments and dosage levels. Withdrawal periods are also at hand. You can always be sure everything is in order without needing to be in the office – or even in the range of a signal.”
Once the user has a signal, all data is uploaded to the cloud and synced with the desktop programme. Each action is shown on the screen with the option to make edits before saving. Multiple users can work simultaneously, with all incoming data being verified and the manager alerted if something doesn’t align.
“Cattle Manager customers have been requesting an app for a long time,” said Ms Ashwell. “Cattle Manager Go is the answer, putting all the information you need at hand on the farm. In addition to saving time and making your life easier, the app helps ensure accurate and timely reporting. It’s the power of Cattle Manager in the palm of your hand.”
The company is also working on an update to meet new regulations in Scotland. From the 4th of October, cattle births, deaths and movement notifications must be submitted through ScotMoves, instead of BCMS. Farmplan has been working to facilitate this.
For more information go to www.farmplan.co.uk
