Cloud-based technology keeps records afloat
Don't be afraid of change; it's the reason your phone isn't still attached to the wall by a tangled length of wire.
ONLINE ACCOUNTING software company Xero will launch its ‘Farming in the Cloud’ mid-year, offering farmers and their advisors real-time, single ledger reporting.
This will enable farmers and their accountants, banks and rural service companies to work together from the same set of online, real-time data – one centralised home for key accounting and farm management tools.
“By working together from the same set of data, the accounting role becomes less about compliance, and more about exploring opportunities for greater profitability,” says Ben Richmond, who leads Xero’s rural strategy.
Key farming software partner Figured’s farming-specific tools complement Xero’s accounting expertise.
“With seamless information between all parties and no need to transfer data, everyone’s focus is on adding value rather than gathering information,” says Duncan Anderson, project director.
“Just as you don’t need a tractor for every implement in the shed, Figured means you no longer need separate ‘engines’ for financial management. It can now all be done using our complete livestock reporting and farm budgeting tools.
“Ultimately, this means better teamwork between farmer and accountant, better organisation, better decision-making and better farming.”
PGG Wrightson is also involved, says Shannon Galloway, PGG general manager marketing.
“Our relationship with Xero provides opportunities to help simplify and speed up the monthly accounting process.”
Other farming software partners include iAgri and Aghub whose online farm management software is now being integrated with Farming in the Cloud.
“This product allows greater oversight of cashflow management and makes forecasting simpler,” Richmond says.
“It also allows for greater collaboration with such as accountants and banks, so they can act as true rural advisors – monitoring farm performance, providing relevant, real-time financial advice and working together for best results.”
Xero is working with Vodafone to launch Farming in the Cloud. Vodafone is the contractor for the Government’s five year Rural Broadband Initiative (RBI), giving greater coverage and better speeds in rural areas. Three years on, the RBI has covered 180,000 of the 250,000 targeted addresses.
The red meat sector is welcoming the start of trade negotiations between New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Meat processor Alliance Group's cash-strapped farmer shareholders face a dilemma - either pour more money into the co-operative or risk losing 100% ownership and control.
Farmer-led charity, Meat the Need is calling for donations to enable it to supply more meals to families in need.
Weaker pricing and demand from China continue to impact New Zealand red meat export earnings.
Fonterra has cemented its position as the country’s number one cheesemaker by picking up nine NZ Champion of Cheese trophies this year.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.