When agricultural employers decide to start working with Harvust, one of the first questions we get is: What devices should we use in the field? I've found the answer isn't just about what works—it's about what works best without unnecessary costs or headaches. Here's what you need to know (and this applies to any ag software).
Think About the Task
Let's use Harvust's electronic farmworker onboarding tool as an example. Since it is a web-based application it should work on any modern internet-connected device. However, experience has shown that some devices perform better than others.:
- Hiring managers: A laptop or tablet is ideal. Smartphones are too small to enter information efficiently and manage many workers. Pro-tip: get a detachable keyboard for your tablet.
- New employees: Smartphones work for quick interactions like training, messaging, and signing documents.
- Reliability: Any device newer than 2020 with a decent camera (for ID scanning) will do.
- Remote locations: No Wi-Fi? A tablet with a cellular plan (like an iPad or Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 5G) is your best bet.
Devices to Avoid
Not all devices are created equal. Some seem like a bargain but end up causing more trouble than they're worth:
- Kindles and Amazon Fire Tablets – Limited functionality and poor browser support.
- Onn brand (Walmart) tablets – Inconsistent performance.
- Lenovo Tab series – Often runs outdated software and lacks necessary web technology.
The Best Device is No Device
We've seen growers who use our farmworker training tool throw away their old projectors, TVs, and (yes, finally) DVD players! Any opportunity to reduce your technology means less maintenance and a chance for things to go wrong.
Common Challenges & Considerations
1. Internet Connectivity in the Field
Internet access is still a challenge, depending on location. Some customers have asked for an offline version of Harvust, but the better solution is improving internet connectivity. Services like Starlink can provide fast, reliable connections for Harvust and all your smart farming tools.
2. Outdated Devices Cause Problems
Old software and hardware don't support modern web technologies. Keeping devices updated ensures smooth and secure operation. I have an iPhone 12 mini from 2020, and I don't have problems with any apps. Your devices don't have to be brand new; they just can't be ancient. Auto-updating software takes care of the rest.
3. Specialized Devices Require Specialized Attention
Some software providers push specialty hardware, like ID badge printers. These can be useful—if you know how to use them. Too often, vendors sell the device but provide no training, leaving employers frustrated and stuck with equipment they can't troubleshoot. And with printers, don't forget about buying ink and blank badges. Now you've got an inventory problem to deal with!
4. Vendor Lock-In: The Hidden Cost of Proprietary Devices
Buying devices from a software vendor locks you into their ecosystem. If you want to adopt new technology in the future, you may find your devices useless outside of that one system—forcing you to buy another round of hardware. This was the case with a grower who wanted to start working with us, but they had just invested in another agtech vendor's hardware, and the vendor wouldn't let them use Harvust on the devices they had just bought! So the grower decided not to use Harvust. Three years later, that grower still has training and compliance challenges that we could have solved.
Why We Don't Sell Devices
Other agtech companies push expensive, proprietary, ruggedized smartphones. We don't. Our bring your own device (BYOD) model means lower costs, no extra IT burden, and the flexibility to use hardware you already own and trust.
The Value of BYOD for Ag Employers
The bring your own device (BYOD) model offers clear advantages:
- Lower upfront costs – No need to buy specialized equipment.
- Maximize ROI on existing devices – Use what you already own.
- Less IT burden – Employees and managers are already familiar with their devices.
- More flexibility – Harvust works on any modern device, so you're not locked in.
The right device makes a difference—but it's not about buying the most expensive or rugged option. It's about choosing a reliable, modern device that fits your needs without adding unnecessary costs or complexity. With a BYOD approach, you stay flexible, reduce expenses, and make technology adoption easier.
