acreconnect

9 Questions to Ask Before Purchasing Software for Your Spray Drone Business

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 18:23:34 GMT

How to evaluate Drone Software

Choosing the right software for your spray drone business is a big decision. The right platform can help you stay organized, save time, keep things running smoothly, ensure compliance, and help you grow. But with so many options, how do you know what to look for? Here are nine essential questions to ask—along with guidance on what to consider, how AcreConnect® addresses each one, and a handy checklist at the end to help you compare your options.

1. How is my data stored and protected? Where? What kind of security practices do you follow?

Why it matters: You’ll be storing sensitive data—flight logs, customer records, chemical usage, and more. Look for software that uses encryption, secure authentication, and U.S.-based servers. Ask whether the provider has passed third-party security audits.

What to look for:

U.S.-based data storage
Encryption and secure authentication
Multi-factor login options
Proven track record of uptime and security

How AcreConnect® helps: AcreConnect® stores all data securely on U.S.-based servers and has passed rigorous security audits by enterprise customers. We use Auth0 (an Okta technology) for secure user authentication, including multi-factor login and single sign-on. Our architecture ensures that customer data is isolated and protected. To date, we’ve had no unplanned downtime, surpassing industry standards.

2. What drones is this software integrated with?

Why it matters: The spray drone market is evolving fast. You may expand your fleet or switch brands. Your software should support multiple drone types to future-proof your investment.

What to look for:

Compatibility with major drone brands (e.g., DJI, XAG, EAVision, Exedy)
Ability to manage a mixed fleet
Automatic syncing or easy import of flight logs

How AcreConnect® helps: AcreConnect® integrates with DJI, XAG, EAVision and Exedy drones, allowing you to automatically sync or upload flight logs. Flight logs can be used to generate application maps and FAA reports or simply stored as records on U.S. servers—no matter your fleet mix.

3. How reliable is the software? How quickly are bugs fixed? What kind of support is available?

Why it matters: Downtime during spray season can cost you. Look for a platform with a strong uptime record, fast bug fixes, and responsive support based in the U.S.

What to look for:

Uptime guarantees or history
Continuous updates and bug fixes
Access to tutorials, FAQs, and live support

How AcreConnect® helps: AcreConnect® has had no unplanned downtime since launch. Our Continuous Integration/Deployment pipeline ensures bugs are identified, fixed, and released in a timely manner. We offer in-app help, tooltips, tutorials, and live support during business hours from drone and software experts.

4. How can I export my data and share it with customers or other systems?

Why it matters: You’ll need to generate reports, share data with customers, and possibly integrate with farm management or accounting systems. Avoid platforms that lock in your data.

What to look for:

Easy data export (PDF, CSV, etc.)
Integrations with third-party tools
Customizable reports

How AcreConnect® helps: You can export data from AcreConnect® to QuickBooks®, John Deere Operations Center™, and Climate FieldView™. Generate professional reports, application maps, invoices, and estimates with just a few clicks.

5. How can I import customer data? Do I have to re-enter everything?

Why it matters: Manual data entry is time-consuming and error prone. Look for software that syncs with your existing systems.

What to look for:

Integration with accounting or CRM tools
Bulk import options
Data syncing features

How AcreConnect® helps: AcreConnect® integrates with QuickBooks®, allowing you to import and sync customer data automatically—no double entry required.

6. How do I ensure that chemicals are accurately reported? Do I have to enter that information myself?

Why it matters: Accurate chemical reporting is essential for compliance and safety. Manual entry increases the risk of errors.

What to look for:

Integration with chemical databases
Autofill or lookup features
Built-in compliance tools

How AcreConnect® helps: We integrate with the Telus® Ag chemical database, giving you access to a vast library of product labels. Just search for and select the product(s) you’re using—no manual entry required.

7. How are FAA reports generated? What drones does this work with? How long does it take?

Why it matters: FAA reporting is mandatory for drones over 55 lbs. The process should be automated and accurate to save time and reduce errors.

What to look for:

FAA-compliant reporting tools
Drone log integration
Time-saving automation

How AcreConnect® helps: AcreConnect® generates FAA-compliant reports for DJI, XAG, EAVision and Exedy drones. Customers report reducing reporting time by 75%—from hours to minutes.

8. How can I create an application map to prove where I applied?

Why it matters: Application maps are often required by growers and retailers. They also help you demonstrate coverage and compliance.

What to look for:

Application map generation
Integration with farm management systems
Export options (PDF, image, etc.)

How AcreConnect® helps: We’re the only platform offering application maps for DJI, XAG, EAVision and Exedy drones. AcreConnect® integrates with John Deere Operations Center™ and Climate FieldView™ to share application maps with your customers directly, and lets you export maps as PDFs.

9. How can I see the software and try it before I buy it?

Why it matters: You should be able to explore features, test usability, and ensure the software fits your workflow before committing.

What to look for:

Free trial period
Access to tutorials and sample data
Live demos or walkthroughs

How AcreConnect® helps: We offer a 7-day free trial with sample data, tutorials, and in-app help. Want a personalized walkthrough? Our team is happy to show you how AcreConnect® can support your business with a live demo.

Your Spray Drone Software Evaluation Checklist :

AcreConnect® Integrates with EAVision Drones

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 22:00:12 GMT

New API connection gives spray drone operators automatic flight-data syncing

SOLON, IA [March 26, 2026] – AcreConnect® , a U.S.-developed software platform for spray drone operations, today announced a new integration with EAVision Drones that enables operators to automatically sync flight logs. The integration marks the first API-based data connections available for EAVision drone equipment, reflecting a broader push toward automated digital recordkeeping in agricultural aerial application.

Unlike other third‑party spray drone management platforms, AcreConnect® provides a direct API‑based connection to EAVision equipment, eliminating manual file handling and giving operators a more reliable, automated way to access and store flight data.

With the new integration, flight logs from EAVision drones sync directly to AcreConnect® , where they are organized, stored, and available for application maps and FAA reports within the operator’s account. The automated sync reduces time spent on administrative tasks and supports more consistent, accurate recordkeeping—an increasing priority as operators look for more productivity and efficiency.

“This integration gives operators access to flight data without the friction of downloading, transferring, or managing files,” said Mariah Scott, CEO of American Autonomy, Inc. “By connecting AcreConnect® with EAVision, we’re removing a major bottleneck during the busiest parts of the season so operators can focus on delivering accurate, timely applications.”

The API-driven connection standardizes how flight data is transmitted and stored, offering more reliability than traditional file exports. For operators managing multiple drones or high job volume, consistent data structure reduces errors and eliminates the risk of misplaced or incomplete flight logs.

“Any current EAVision drone, and future models such as the J70, can take advantage of this integration,” said Jeff Holman, Chief Product and Technology Officer (CPTO) at American Autonomy, Inc. “API integrations give operators cleaner, more uniform data, which becomes essential as they scale their services and rely on automated reporting.”

AcreConnect® now supports adding EAVision equipment directly within the platform, allowing users to activate the integration immediately.

For more information about AcreConnect® and its integration with EAVision drones, v isit www.acreconnect.io .

AcreConnect® Opens Office in Solon, Iowa

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 16:07:48 GMT

new beginnings in our new home!

We have officially opened our new office in Solon, Iowa—a move that marks the next step in our transition to a software‑only business and our continued commitment to serving the agricultural drone industry. While we have a new location, our phone number and email remain the same, so you can continue reaching us just as you always have!

Why Solon?

We’ve always been based in eastern Iowa, but as we shifted away from equipment sales and into full‑scale software development, we needed a space that better supported where we’re heading. Solon offered exactly what we were looking for.

Our CFO, John, who lives in Solon, recommended the space, and it immediately stood out as the right fit. It gives us the workspace we need for day‑to‑day operations and offers close access to areas where we can test and validate our software on drones.

A New Chapter for the Company

Moving into the Solon office marks the beginning of a new chapter for us. As we continue our transition into a fully software‑driven organization, this location reflects our renewed focus and the momentum behind our platform. It gives us the room and resources to scale as more agricultural drone operators adopt our tools.

The Team in Solon

While our team is distributed across the country, the Solon office will serve as our headquarters. We have team members across finance, customer success, and marketing that work from this office. Critically, the customer success group—who speak with users daily—plays an important role in gathering insights, feedback, and real‑world needs. Their presence ensures that the voice of the operator stays central to the company’s software development process. We’re proud to bring innovation in agricultural technology to a community that understands the importance of farming and the people who make it possible.

Looking Ahead

We want Solon residents to know that we are joining the community not just as a business, but as neighbors. We’re proud to bring new technology, innovation, and opportunities to a place that deeply understands agriculture and the people behind it.

We’re excited for what comes next, and we’re proud that our future is growing here in Solon.

Celebrating our Year: 2025 AcreConnect® End of Year Report

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 16:58:53 GMT

a year of exciting progress and meaningful improvements

As 2025 comes to a clos e, we’re celebrating another successful year of AcreConnect®.

We launched a completely redesigned AcreConnect® website to make it easier for customers to explore features and access resources, an d introduced an improved Knowledge Center packed with more articles, guides, and tips to help you get the most out of AcreConnect® .

Innovation was at the heart of everything we did this year. We introduced integrations with Climate FieldView™ to share application maps and QuickBooks™ Online to simplify customer management and billing. Our new service provider map made it easier for customers to connect with you, while the bulk upload feature made log file uploading for application maps easier than ever.

We also focused on giving you more control. In-app user and subscription manage ment put account settings at your fingertips, and flight group management made creating application maps more efficient than ever.

These updates weren’t just new features—they were designed to help you succeed. We’ve seen operators save time, improve accuracy, and grow their businesses with AcreConnect® , and we couldn’t be more proud to support that success.

Looking ahead to 2026, we’re excited to keep building tools to help you grow your business.

Thank you for being part of the AcreConnect® community. Here’s to another year of innovation and growth!

AcreConnect® Joins American Autonomy Inc. Portfolio

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 16:00:05 GMT

Rantizo Spray Operations Acquired by Strategic Investment Group; Business Rebrands as American Autonomy, Inc.

IOWA CITY, IA [August 1, 2025] – Rantizo, Inc. today announced the strategic sale of its drone spraying operations business to a specialized investment group with extensive experience in agricultural technology and aerial application services. Under new ownership, the Rantizo brand and name will continue as a trusted leader in drone spraying services, ensuring ongoing expansion and strengthening of its legacy of precision, reliability, and innovation nationwide.

Simultaneously, Rantizo, Inc. has rebranded as American Autonomy, Inc., strengthening its focus on delivering software solutions for the American spray drone industry. This rebranding aligns with the company's ongoing mission to put autonomy to work, starting with spray drones.

“We are thrilled to see Rantizo spray services positioned for significant growth,” said Mariah Scott, former CEO of Rantizo and now CEO of American Autonomy, Inc. “Our evolution into American Autonomy, Inc. allows us to deepen our focus on software, empowering drone operators with tools to manage their season. It’s a strategic leap forward benefiting our team, partners, and customers.”

AcreConnect™, a cornerstone software product originally developed by Rantizo, will anchor the American Autonomy Inc. portfolio. AcreConnect™ supports drone operators throughout the spray season— from customer management, job creation and flight log management to application map creation and distribution, billing, and FAA reporting. 

A spokesperson for the acquiring group added, “Rantizo has established itself as a trusted leader with unparalleled expertise in drone-based agricultural applications. This acquisition strengthens our ability to bring cutting-edge, technology-driven aerial spraying services to the backbone of American ag riculture, empowering growers with modern, dependable solutions. Our commitment is long-term: to build upon Rantizo’s strengths, invest strategically, and drive sustainable growth to serve growers and ag retailers at scale."

To learn more about ongoing drone spray services, visit www.Rantizo.com . Additional information about American Autonomy, Inc. can be found at www.american-autonomy.com .

About American Autonomy, Inc.

Formerly Rantizo, Inc., American Autonomy, Inc. develops industry-leading software solutions, including AcreConnect™, to support the American spray drone industry.

About AcreConnect™

AcreConnect™  software helps spray drone operators manage their spray season – from customer management, job creation and flight log management to distribution of application maps, billing and FAA reporting.  AcreConnect™  software is developed, hosted and supported in the U.S., where our team has been flying and supporting spray drones since 2018. 

©2025 American Autonomy, Inc. All rights reserved. Rantizo® is a trademark of Rantizo Inc. AcreConnect™ is a trademark of American Autonomy, Inc. All other trademarks remain the property of their respective owners.

AcreConnect® Integrates with Intuit QuickBooks® Online

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 15:35:29 GMT

Spray drone operators can now bill customers faster and easier.

IOWA CITY, IA [June 16, 2025] – AcreConnect™ , a U.S.-developed software platform designed to help spray drone operators manage their spray seasons, announces a new integration with Intuit QuickBooks® Online.

With this integration, spray drone operators can now create and send invoices from AcreConnect™ , using customer and inventoried products and services from QuickBooks® Online. This means users can handle billing and invoicing without ever leaving the AcreConnect™ platform.

“Our goal with AcreConnect™ , is to give operators the tools and resources they need to run their businesses more efficiently,” said Mariah Scott, CEO. “By integrating AcreConnect™ with QuickBooks® Online, we’re making it easier for operators to bill customers quickly and accurately, which helps them get paid faster and keep cash flow steady.”

Operators no longer need to move across multiple software systems to bill and check invoice status. With everything in one place, invoicing becomes a faster, more reliable process. This is especially valuable during the busy spray season, when time and accuracy are critical.

“Connecting AcreConnect™ with QuickBooks® Online will help our customers fly more and deliver better service,” said Jeff Holman, Chief Product and Technology Officer (CPTO). “We’re giving operators more time to focus on their work in the field, not behind a desk.”

The integration also enhances record keeping by keeping customers, jobs, and invoices organized and easily accessible from any device with an internet connection. Whether operators are in the office or out in the field, they can stay connected and in control of their business operations with confidence and convenience.

AcreConnect™ users can now connect their accounts to QuickBooks® Online and begin using the integration right away. The setup is simple, and once connected, operators can streamline their billing process with AcreConnect™ .

To learn more about AcreConnect™ and how it integrates with QuickBooks® Online, vis it www.acreconnect.io .

AcreConnect® Unveils New AcreConnect.io Website

Thu, 22 May 2025 18:40:00 GMT

A dedicated space to see how the software manages your spray season, find timely user support plus subscription access.

IOWA CITY, IA [May 22, 2025] – American Autonomy Inc. (formerly Rantizo, Inc.), announces the launch of AcreConnect.io , a new website dedicated exclusively to its flagship software product, AcreConnect™ . Designed to make it easy to find detailed information and support, the site serves as a central hub for both current and prospective users.

The new AcreConnect™ website offers a comprehensive overview of the platform’s capabilities and provides easy access to essential tools and resources:

Discover Capabilities : Explore the full range of AcreConnect™ features that help operators manage their spray season more efficiently.
Connect Through the Service Provider Map : See how AcreConnect™ connects drone operators with growers, ag retailers and industry partners seeking for spray services.
Get Help and Support: Access a robust knowledge center, FAQs, testimonials and direct customer support to resolve issues quickly and efficiently.
Log In and Create Accounts : Quickly and securely access AcreConnect™
Explore Subscription Options : Compare plans, understand feature sets, and purchase a subscription that best fits your operational needs.

AcreConnect™ has become a trusted tool for drone operators looking to manage and grow their spray operations. The new website builds on that foundation by showcasing key features such as job scheduling and dispatch, customer management, flight log management, application map distribution, and FAA reporting. AcreConnect™ integrates with DJI and XAG drones, as well as leading farm management platforms like John Deere Operations Center™ and Climate FieldView™. Coming soon, it will also offer direct integration with QuickBooks® to save time with invoicing.

“This launch represents a major step forward in making AcreConnect™ more visible and valuable to our operator network,” said Mariah Scott, CEO at American Autonomy Inc. “As the drone industry continues to evolve, we remain committed to delivering U.S.-developed software that supports operators with the tools they need to succeed – from customer management, scheduling and dispatch, to log management, application maps, billing and reporting.”

To explore the new site and learn more about AcreConnect™ , visit AcreConnect.io or contact us at support@acreconnect.io .

AcreConnect® Launches Service Provider Map

marketing@acreconnect.io (American Autonomy AcreConnect Marketing) — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 15:53:17 GMT

Drone operators can create profiles to grow their business; farmers and retailers can request services

IOWA CITY, IA [March 20, 2025] – American Autonomy Inc (formerly Rantizo Inc.), proudly announces the launch of the AcreConnect™ Service Provider Map. This new platform, available at map.acreconnect.io , empowers spray drone operators to create profiles and expand their business reach.

The AcreConnect™ Service Provider map is designed to connect drone operators, farmers, and retailers. By creating a profile, drone operators can showcase their services, making it easier for potential clients to find and contact them directly. Farmers and retailers can use the map to request spray services or reach out to operators using the provided contact information.

“The AcreConnect™ Service Provider Map, delivers on our promise to connect demand and supply for agtech services," said Mariah Scott, CEO at American Autonomy Inc. "We are building a service network that puts autonomy to work in agriculture. This map will make precision ag services more accessible for more farmers on more acres."

Launching on the first day of spring, the AcreConnect™ Service Provider Map is perfectly timed for farmers to pre-book their spray services for the upcoming season. This strategic launch ensures that farmers and retailers can efficiently plan and secure the essential services needed to optimize their crop management and protection efforts.

"The AcreConnect™ Service Provider map represents a significant advancement in how we connect service providers with those in need of their expertise," said Jeff Holman, Chief Product and Technology Officer (CPTO) at American Autonomy Inc. "This platform not only helps drone operators grow their businesses but also provides farmers and retailers with a convenient way to access local drone spraying services.”

For more information about the AcreConnect™ Service Provider Map, visit map.acreconnect.io .

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AcreConnect® Connects with Climate FieldView™

marketing@acreconnect.io (American Autonomy AcreConnect Marketing) — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 23:49:38 GMT

Drone operators can now share application maps with Bayer's digital farming platform

IOWA CITY, IA [February 25, 2025] – American Autonomy Inc., announces its proprietary AcreConnect™ software is now connected with Climate FieldView, Bayer's flagship digital farming platform. This connection allows growers to get a more comprehensive view of their operations by including spray drone application records and maps. AcreConnect™ software is the only provider of application maps for both DJI and XAG drones. Now spray drone operators can easily share those application maps with growers directly via their FieldView account.

“As we integrate AcreConnect™ with farm management software like FieldView, we’re connecting spray drones with the precision agriculture ecosystem,” says Mariah Scott, CEO. “It’s our priority to provide our operator network with the tools and resources to efficiently manage their spray season. We are excited to bring this option to growers and retailers using FieldView.”

"Our customers use many different technologies and work in fast-paced environments. Their tools need to work as a whole to deliver insights that support confident farm decisions," says Jeremy Williams, Head of Digital Farming and Commercial Ecosystems for Bayer's Crop Science division. "Combining drone application maps from AcreConnect™ with other data layers in FieldView leads to better insights for farmers and better agronomic recommendations."

Using AcreConnect™ with FieldView allows operators to share application maps directly with customers. This ensures that spray records are included with other application information and field data, giving farmers and retailers a more comprehensive view of their operations. This holistic approach to data management facilitates better decision-making, leading to valuable insight into profitability, ROI and sustainability.

“We are constantly working to enhance the value of AcreConnect™ for spray drone operators,” says Jeff Holman, Chief Product and Technology Officer (CPTO). “Connecting our software with FieldView is an important first step in making it easier for growers to get a complete 360-degree view of their agricultural operations.”

Users of AcreConnect™ can now connect their account to Climate FieldView. To learn more about AcreConnect™ , visit AcreConnect.io .

How Spray Drone Operators Can Simplify Monthly FAA Reporting with AcreConnect™

marketing@acreconnect.io (American Autonomy AcreConnect Marketing) — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 19:06:04 GMT

For spray drone operators with drones over 55 lbs., monthly reporting to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is required. While this monthly requirement may sound daunting, it doesn't have to be. With AcreConnect ™ software, we provide a solution to make monthly reporting easy.

In operations with multiple spray drones, pilots, and acres sprayed, manually compiling monthly reports can be a time-consuming process. For independent operators, it’s taking away valuable time that could instead be spent spraying.

Let’s explore the requirements submitting monthly reports and how the process can be streamlined and simplified with AcreConnect ™ software.

What Do FAA Regulations Say About Monthly Reporting?

As defined in the conditions and limitations section of a 44807-exemption approval and a Part 137 license, the FAA requires specific monthly metrics to be reported on for drones over 55 lbs. The reporting process requires operators to provide the FAA with the necessary flight records and information to demonstrate compliance with federal regulations. The required reporting information must be provided exactly as requested by the FAA and is subject to change at any time. It also requires all flight data, even if the drone wasn’t applying crop inputs.

The general information to be reported on includes:

Company details and FAA exemption numbers.
Aircraft summary with total flights and total flight hours.
Flight reports with dates flown , fli ght time hours, pilots, and locations.
Any incidents occurring in that month can also be reflected in the report.

How Can AcreConnect ™ Help with Monthly Reporting?

AcreConnect ™ provides the ability to easily create monthly flight record reports. The reporting feature simplifies the often complex and time-consuming task of compiling information for the FAA, while reducing errors, and ensuring operators meet all regulatory requirements.

The monthly reporting feature uses uploaded flight record data from DJI or XAG, auto-populates the required information, and generates it into a single report. Operators can export the necessary files directly from AcreConnect ™ to submit to the FAA.

Guided by our Chief Pilot’s deep understanding of the FAA regulations, AcreConnect ™ reflects the most current FAA reporting requirements. As regulations change, the feature will adapt and evolve accordingly to make sure all necessary report information is included. Incidents can also be documented and reported on as needed.

Maintaining and submitting these reports is required, and it helps spray drone operators ensure safety, compliance, and accountability in their business.

Compile a Report in Less Than 15 Minutes

According to Silas Steiner, Owner and Operator at Thrive Ag:

“The new compliance reporting feature has been a huge benefit. Previously, I was using a combination of an AI chat bot along with a spreadsheet to compile monthly reports. Using AcreConnect™ has decreased the time it takes to generate these reports from an hour or more down to 15 minutes. Huge thanks to the AcreConnect™ team for their help and support.”

Record keeping Requirements

While operators of drones under 55 lbs. are not required to submit monthly reports, they are still required to maintain flight records for up to 12 months.

Need help with record keeping? AcreConnect ™ can help with that, too. Through its work order and product usage report features, operators can efficiently manage record keeping duties, so operators can spend more time flying and less behind a desk.

Learn more about record keeping requirements in this blog article .

To learn more about AcreConnect ™ or reporting requirements for Part 137 operators, visit our website , email sales@acreconnect.io or call 319-201-3020.

AcreConnect®: Essential Recordkeeping Benefits for Operators of Drones Under 55 lbs.

marketing@acreconnect.io (American Autonomy AcreConnect Marketing) — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 11:00:00 GMT

Some operators believe they don’t need AcreConnect ™ because they aren’t required to report flight data to the FAA. While it’s true operators using drones under 55 lbs. are exempt from reporting flight data to the FAA, they still must maintain comprehensive records, which AcreConnect ™ can help to maintain. Let’s explore how.

What Do Part 137 Regulations Say About Recordkeeping?

According to section 137.71, each holder of a commercial agricultural aircraft operator certificate shall maintain and keep current, at the home base of operations designated in his or her application, the following records:
Customer information : Name and address of each person for whom agricultural aircraft services were provided.
Service details : The date of the service.
Materials dispensed : The name and quantity of the material used for each operation.
Pilot information : The name, address, and certificate number of each pilot, along with the date they met the knowledge and skill requirements of 137.19(e).
These records must be kept for at least 12 months and made available for inspection by the FAA Administrator upon request.

How Can AcreConnect ™ Help with Recordkeeping?

AcreConnect ™ provides a simple solution to help operators stay compliant with these requirements through its work order and product usage report features. By leveraging AcreConnect ™, operators can efficiently manage their recordkeeping duties, ensuring they meet all regulatory obligations without the hassle.

What Do Part 137 Regulations Say About Incident Reporting?

All Part 137 license holders are required to report accidents to the FAA within 10 days of the incident, including serious injury, loss of consciousness and property damage in excess of $500.

How Can AcreConnect ™ Help with Incident Reporting?

AcreConnect ™ simplifies the incident reporting process, ensuring that all necessary information is accurately recorded and easily accessible within the FAA reporting feature.

To learn more about AcreConnect ™ or record keeping requirements for Part 137 operators, visit our website , email sales@acreconnect.io or call 319-201-3020.

From Launch to Success: AcreConnect® Celebrates 6 Months

marketing@acreconnect.io (American Autonomy AcreConnect Marketing) — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 19:20:04 GMT

In March 2024, AcreConnect ™ was launched with the ambitious goal of offering a tool for spray drone operators looking to enhance their operations and deliver better customer service. Established to meet an operator need for application maps to show their work, AcreConnect ™ received strong interest and demand from launch. As of September 2024, the software has prioritized adding new features that help spray drone operators run their businesses.

Launch and Initial Response

AcreConnect ™ launched with essential features aimed at boosting productivity for spray drone operators. Available in two suites, Essentials and Premier, the software’s initial offerings included core business tools. The response from early adopters was overwhelmingly positive, praising its user-friendly interface, field-edge usability ¹ , and capabilities to reduce downtime, office work, and manual note-taking.

Introductory Features

Work Orders offered operators the ability to get work started fast, assign team members, and select chemicals with confidence from the integrated label database provided by TELUS® Agriculture (formerly Agrian).
Product Usage Reports gave operators the ability to accurately record products sprayed, acres applied, and weather on site.
Application Maps let operators show their customers where products were sprayed.

User Growth and New Features

By June 2024, AcreConnect ™ had expanded its user base to include independent operators and large retail operations. During this period, we introduced new features and announced compatibility with XAG drones, establishing AcreConnect ™ as the only provider of application ² maps for both DJI and XAG drones.

Job Estimator (formerly Invoice Assistant) ³ helped users quickly estimate work and generate job quotes for customers, then send the estimate directly via email or text.
The Log File Management feature gave users the ability to view, delete, and filter uploaded flight logs with ease.
XAG Compatibility allowed XAG drone users to upload flight logs and generate detailed application maps.

Job estimator (formerly Invoice Assistant ³ ) quickly became one of the most valued features, enabling operators to estimate work before a job and send invoices to customers afterward. Organizing flight logs became easier with log file management. The integration with XAG drones was a crucial enhancement for operators using both XAG and DJI drones in their fleets, also attracting a new set of users to the software.

Opportunities with Farm Management Systems

Next, we identified opportunities to integrate with industry-leading farm management systems. We aimed to create a software ecosystem that complemented these systems. By partnering with John Deere Operations Center ™ ⁴ and Climate FieldView™ ⁵ , we ensured that customers could include spray records alongside other application information and field data.

The John Deere Operations Center™ ⁴ connection through John Deere API services allowed users to directly share application maps with Operations Center.
Application maps could also be uploaded into Climate FieldView™ ⁵ .

These features streamlined sharing spraying information with customers’ farm management systems. This ultimately gave growers and retailers a more comprehensive view of their field operations.

Supporting Operator Compliance

The AcreConnect ™ development team worked tirelessly to ensure the software’s capabilities met operators’ needs. In late September 2024, we introduced a critical new feature. We understood the importance of operators maintaining regulatory compliance as part of their business operations. That’s why we introduced the FAA reporting feature to help them do just that.

The FAA Reporting feature helped simplify the often complex and time-consuming task of compiling information for the FAA. This feature allowed operators to easily generate the FAA’s monthly required report, enabling them to spend more time flying and less on paperwork.

The FAA Reporting feature was launched to help operators flying drones over 55 lbs. create monthly FAA flight reports and operators flying drones under 55 lbs. maintain records as required by their Part 137 license. They could also document incident records, as needed.

Six Months In: A Collaborative Effort

In just six months, AcreConnect ™ has become a valuable tool for the agricultural spray drone industry, enhancing business productivity. We are proud of our team’s ongoing efforts to make AcreConnect ™ the go-to software for spray drone operators.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Visit AcreConnect.io to create a free account and start a 7-day free trial to start enjoying the benefits today.

Are you already using AcreConnect ™ and have a feature in mind you’d like to see added? We’d love to hear from you!

1 AcreConnect ™ requires data connectivity.

2 As Applied Maps require sync with Rantizo Agras account for DJI drone users.

3 Job Estimator (formerly Invoice Assistant) is not connected to or integrated within any payment software and will not calculate any applicable tax rates. Invoice Assistant is not intended to replace other invoicing systems but is designed to complement other billing systems you may have.

4 AcreConnect ™ is connected to John Deere Operations Center™ via John Deere APIs.

AcreConnect® Introduces FAA Reporting Feature

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 15:14:32 GMT

NEW SOFTWARE FEATURE SIMPLIFIES FAA REPORTING FOR SPRAY DRONE OPERATORS

IOWA CITY, IA [Sept 30, 2024] – American Autonomy Inc. (formally Rantizo Inc.) announces a new Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reporting feature within its AcreConnect ™ productivity software. This new feature provides agricultural spray drone operators with the ability to create monthly flight record reports for their operation as required by their Part 137 license.

Monthly FAA reporting is crucial for spray drone operators to ensure safety, compliance, and accountability in their business. The new reporting feature simplifies the often complex and time-consuming task of compiling information for the FAA, reducing errors and ensuring operators meet all regulatory requirements. Operators can export the necessary files directly from AcreConnect ™ to submit to the FAA.

“As drone spraying services continue to grow, helping our operators stay compliant with FAA reporting regulations is critical,” said Mariah Scott, CEO. “Our latest AcreConnect ™ feature simplifies the reporting process, allowing spray drone operators to focus on what they do best – precisely delivering crop protection and optimizing their operations while easily maintaining compliance.”

Holders of a Part 137 certificate with drones over 55 pounds must provide monthly reports to the FAA. This includes reporting on specific flight record information as directed by the FAA and its associated approval documentation. Incidents can also be documented and reported on as needed. These reports help the FAA monitor and regulate agricultural drone operations, ensuring they are conducted safely and in accordance with federal regulations.

“Our chief pilot’s deep understanding of FAA regulations was key in developing this new reporting feature,” said Jeff Holman, Chief Product Technology Officer (CPTO). “Our product team and chief pilot worked together to ensure the feature incorporates the current FAA reporting requirements. As regulations change, the feature will adapt and evolve accordingly to make sure all necessary report information is included.”

Users of AcreConnect ™ can now access this new feature. To learn more about AcreConnect ™, visit AcreConnect.io .

AcreConnect® connects with John Deere API

marketing@acreconnect.io (American Autonomy AcreConnect Marketing) — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 16:15:00 GMT

Drone operators can share application maps with John Deere Operations Center™

IOWA CITY, IA [July 30, 2024] – American Autonomy Inc. (formerly Rantizo Inc.), announces its proprietary AcreConnect™ productivity software is now connected with the John Deere Operations Center™ through the John Deere API services. This connection allows American Autonomy Inc. to significantly enhance the value of AcreConnect™ by enabling spray drone operators to easily share application maps with customers on Operations Center.

“ AcreConnect™ is the only provider of as applied and as covered maps for both DJI and XAG spray drones, so we are excited to bring this valuable data to growers and retailers through John Deere Operations Center™,” said Mariah Scott, CEO. “We’re building a software ecosystem that makes it easier for our operators to deliver top-notch service to their customers.”

Using AcreConnect™ with Operations Center™ allows operators to share ‘As Covered’ and ‘As Applied’ Maps directly with customers. This ensures that spray records are included with other application information and field data, giving growers and retailers a more comprehensive view of their operations. This holistic approach to data management facilitates better decision-making, leading to improved operational efficiency and productivity.

“Connecting AcreConnect™ to the John Deere Operations Center™ truly supports our promise to deliver better service,” said Jeff Holman, Chief Product Technology Officer (CPTO). “Both independent operators and those at retail locations, stand to gain significant value from their ability to share application data directly to a grower’s account.”

Users of AcreConnect™ can now connect their account to Operations Center. To learn more about AcreConnect™ , visit AcreConnect.io .

© 2024 American Autonomy, Inc. All rights reserved. AcreConnect™ is trademark of American Autonomy, Inc. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners. AcreConnect™ is connected to John Deere Operations Center™ via John Deere APIs.

6 Reasons Why You Should Use Productivity Software

marketing@acreconnect.io (American Autonomy AcreConnect Marketing) — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 19:27:41 GMT

In the ever-evolving landscape of spray drone technology, the integration of software is not just a benefit—it’s an advantage. The right tools can transform your operation’s productivity, and that’s where AcreConnect™ comes in. This new productivity software from American Autonomy Inc. (formerly Rantizo, Inc) is made for operators who want to maximize their time flying, minimize office time, and verify their work was done correctly.

Here are six reasons that make AcreConnect™ a powerful addition to your operation.

1. MADE FOR REAL OPERATORS

American Autonomy Inc. is committed to meeting the needs of spray drone operators. We went straight to the source and asked our network operators what features would help their business most. They told us they needed reliable software that’s as mobile as they are, capable of delivering precise records for quick and easy verification of work with customers. They also emphasized the importance of an accurate product database. AcreConnect™ was designed to meet these core requirements, ensuring that every feature, from mobile accessibility to the integrated label database provided by TELUS® Agriculture (formerly Agrian), is tailored to empower the operator in the field.

2. BETA TESTED, OPERATOR APPROVED

Months of beta testing with independent and employee operators at our regional hubs has helped ensure that AcreConnect™ is fine-tuned to meet practical demands out in the field.

3. ENHANCED EFFICIENCY

The new software helps operators stay organized by collecting information throughout the job. Create work orders for yourself or assign them to your team to get the job started. Then, view and send product usage reports, application maps from the field’s edge* after the job is completed. No need to wait until you are back in the office.

4. VERIFY YOUR WORK

Whether it's for billing or simply to put your customer at ease, it’s important to be able to verify your work was completed promptly and accurately. AcreConnect™ collects data throughout the job to ensure that every acre sprayed is accounted for, as soon as the job is completed.

5. GET MORE WORK

Get listed on the AcreConnect™ Service Provider Map to gain eligibility for local spray jobs requested in your area.

6. AFFORDABLE SOLUTION

We understand that every dollar counts when it comes to your business. That’s why AcreConnect™ is priced to pay for itself quickly. In fact, landing just one additional job could easily offset the cost of your entire subscription.

Ready to take the next step? Visit AcreConnect.io/request-a-demo to request a demo or purchase AcreConnect™ software and start enjoying the benefits today.

*AcreConnect requires data connectivity.

INTRODUCING AcreConnect® PRODUCTIVITY SOFTWARE

marketing@acreconnect.io (American Autonomy AcreConnect Marketing) — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 17:24:16 GMT

New PRODUCTIVITY Software is now available for spray drone operators.

IOWA CITY, IA [Mar. 18, 2024] – American Autonomy Inc. (formerly Rantizo Inc.) announces the launch of AcreConnect™ software. The software can help spray drone operators create work orders, product usage reports and generate As Applied and As Covered Maps to help streamline business operations.

The newly launched software has been tested through a beta program over the last several months. Real spray drone operators took advantage of the features and provided feedback on the benefits the software provided.

“We’ve been working with our operator network to understand their biggest challenges out in the field and address them with software,” says Chief Product & Technology Officer Jeff Holman. “Customers told us these features help them save time and fly more.”

Available on a phone and laptop, AcreConnect™ makes it easier to manage jobs, gather information for billing and collect data for compliance. The software creates application maps to verify areas sprayed and manage compliance.

“We are always trying to deliver more value to our nationwide network of operators,” says CEO Mariah Scott. “ AcreConnect™ software is designed not only to help make drone spraying more efficient, but to help spray drone operators grow their business.”

By purchasing the software, operators will be added to the service provider map , making them eligible for jobs in their area.

To learn more or request a demo, visit AcreConnect.io .

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