Bringing all fleet data and farm management information together on one app is the logic behind the latest Claas connect digital platform which the company launched recently.
Over the last 25 years Claas has developed several digital services under the Claas connect banner, but this latest offering replaces them all and puts everything on the one plate while still continuing to fulfil the functions of previous apps such as Claas Telematics.
The system is all encompassing and not only works as a tool to record data or remind owners of oil changes, but is involved right from the start of the process of buying, operating and selling a Claas tractor.
Connect from start to finish
Even before a machine is purchased, the app will give advice on model selection, and then move on to purchase agreement and delivery.
It will also provide operating instructions, a lubricant advisor and connection to precision farming services and even the Claas shop.
This one-stop-shop approach will ensure that both farm and fleet management can be accessed from one portal and Claas is keen to work with third party software developers to ensure that other data, from agronomic advice to satellite imagery, can also be integrated onto the platform.
Once a Claas machine, be it a tractor, harvester or implement, is purchased, all the relevant documentation is loaded on to the customer’s Claas connect account.
From there, data on the maintenance schedule, digital operating manual and much else besides, can be accessed.
Data sharing
The data may also be shared with the dealer, operator or other interested party that the farmer allows, although there is a hierarchy involved and parameters can be set for how much of the information can be accessed and by whom.
A five-year licence for Claas connect comes free with every machine allowing all of its functions and features to be used.
However, it is not entirely clear how much of the data may be passed on when the tractor is sold and there appears to be something of a grey area surrounding this aspect, but this applies not just to Class but to the digital revolution as a whole.
