Farm Progress

Just what happens in that tractor cab?

The Farm Progress PANEL wanted to know how farmers are spending those long days in air-cushioned comfort.

Willie Vogt

June 20, 2022

2 Min Read
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CAB TIME: With all the modern tech available, what do farmers do when in the cab – beyond the work at hand? The Farm Progress PANEL asks.Fotoeventis/Getty Images Plus

These days everyone multi-tasks. Of course, with the rise of smart phones and Bluetooth and new kinds of content multitasking means more than it used to, but what? That’s the question we asked for the latest Farm Progress PANEL – How do you multi-task when you’re in the tractor cab?

We offered a few options, including a “nothing” option. And while some people tried for multiple choice – in our mobile panels you can only select one – we’re showing results based on that limit. Those of you who picked multiple options – only your first choice made the cut.

A small number shared they don’t have auto-steer, so they spend their days staring forward. That group – 12% - are focused on the task at hand, and multi-tasking might not be a priority.

The next highest group spends time listening to podcasts. About 13% shared that’s what they do when facing a lot of cab time. For you, perhaps a check of the Farm Progress podcast page is worth a visit.

About 15% share they listen to talk radio when in the cab. This is where they can get news and insight on a lot of what’s going on in the world. And talk radio has long been a key focus of entertainment and education for farmers even back in the days of that AM radio bolted to the fender.

Just over one-fifth listen to music. We didn’t ask what kind of music, but it can take your mind off the work when you’re doing fieldwork. And like talk radio has been an important companion to farmers for some time.

The final choice, and one that got the most response shows nearly 40% of respondents are maximizing their cellphones. They share they’re talking and/or conducting business by phone. For this group, keeping the farm running is probably easier than in the past thanks to cellular technology. Of course, it also means you don’t get some of that ‘me’ time unless you choose not to answer.

Thanks to everyone who responded to these PANEL questions.

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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. And if you’re already part of the PANEL, be sure to respond when that text comes. It just takes a moment to respond with your answer number.

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.

About the Author

Willie Vogt

Willie Vogt has been covering agricultural technology for more than 40 years, with most of that time as editorial director for Farm Progress. He is passionate about helping farmers better understand how technology can help them succeed, when appropriately applied.

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