Can AI take the guesswork out of farming? A timely read ahead of AgExForum2026
Artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly accessible, but what does it really offer farmers? Can it solve practical problems and save time—or does it risk adding another layer of complexity?
A recent article from Agricultural Innovation & Research Eyre Peninsula (AIR EP) explores these questions through the experience of Cummins farmer Will Long, who set out to see whether someone with no software development experience could use AI to build a practical farm app.
Will wanted a simple way to record fuel use across several tanks and properties, monitor stock levels and identify which machines were using fuel. Using AI as a virtual coach, he worked through the initial development process step by step, filling knowledge gaps and troubleshooting problems along the way.
While the initial app worked, turning it into a safe and reliable farm business tool proved more complicated. Publishing and hosting the app required multiple online accounts and raised important questions around cybersecurity, privacy and the handling of farm business information.
Will ultimately returned to his existing Microsoft Forms system—but the exercise still provided valuable insight into what AI can do, where its limitations lie and the difference between a working prototype and a practical long-term solution.
Start with a practical problem
AI does not need to begin with a major technology project. Farmers could test it on one familiar, low-risk task, such as:
- Drafting a machinery maintenance checklist
- Preparing staff procedures
- Summarising notes from a workshop or field day
- Organising ideas or planning logistics
- Exploring improvements to an existing record system
The key is to avoid sharing sensitive information, check the accuracy of the result and ask: Is this actually saving time or improving the way the job is done?
Will’s experience is a timely example of the practical questions surrounding AI, farm data and technology adoption—key themes that will be explored at AgExForum2026.
The real opportunity may not be using AI for the sake of it, but identifying where it can solve a genuine farm problem and deliver measurable value.