Perhaps we should have known about the outcome of our latest Farm Progress PANEL question. After staff has attending our own Farm Progress Show and Husker Harvest Days as well as other industry events ranging from the National Farm Machinery Show to the New York Farm Show, it's obvious that farmers like being together.

Yet we thought we could get some insight into what drives you to leave the farm to see new tools and technology in person. And you did, but we gave you an easy response and you took it.

The question: Farm shows are back live since last fall, what's your farmer part of their return?

About 3% of respondents share they liked getting off the farm for something fun, which makes sense after a year of virtual experiences. Note this is one of four responses.

About 8% of respondents like that face-to-face interaction with companies and their people. It is easier to get your questions answered, especially when the challenge you face is a little hard to explain over the phone.

The next group – 13% - are in it to see new tools in person. And kicking the tires is important, but with advancing technology, getting a live look at something can make a difference. And these live shows do a great job of bringing people in to explain what works and what doesn't for new tech.

The easy button question on this survey garnered 76% of responses. This was the "all of the above" choice because it's clear being live at an event gives you all the features you like. The face-to-face interaction allowing you to see new technology in person while getting off the farm – we get it.

With Commodity Classic firing up this week, more farmers are traveling to get insights, see friends and learn more about ways to profit on their farms – in person.

Thanks to everyone who responded to these PANEL questions.

Let your voice be heard

The Farm Progress PANEL is your chance to share your thoughts on key issues. To take part, start by signing up for our daily mobile text service Farm Progress NOW. To do that text FARM to 20505, and be sure to respond to the text that follows we have a double opt-in system to make sure you're signed up.

Later in one of our daily update texts we'll provide information about how to sign up for the PANEL. And thanks to the respondents for helping us out.

Note: The Farm Progress PANEL is an opt-in SMS-based group. If you are a part of the panel, you may text STOP to unsubscribe.