Microcomputer usage in the horticultural office: An analysis of software requirements and availability in New Zealand

"Based on an honours dissertation prepared by Philip Williams ... supervised and edited by G.F. Thiele"--Foreword.In the 1970s the development of a third generation of computers brought the potential of computer ownership to the individual grower. In 1975, with the utilisation of the mkroprocessor as part of a microcomputer system, the first small computer entered the marketplace in the United States. Microcomputers technology has industries and first appeared in New Zeal and around 1979. Computer proven to be vastly productive, revolutionising many jobs. Microcomputers are becoming significant in the horticultural environment and have the potential to become widely adopted. Their significance is indicated by the amount of time growers are spending using them. Nuthall, (Kellogg Farm Management Unit) surveyed computer users registered with the Unit. Advisers and consultants averaged nearly 20 hours and horticulturists 6.7 hours per week of computer usage (Anon., 1985a), which represents a major management cost to the farm system. This discussion paper: 1. Reviews the use of computers in decision making and the provision of information 2. Describes the software development within the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries' (MAF) Advisory Services Division 3. Describes the major benefits of computer use and the criteria for selection of a system 4. Summarises the software available for horticulture 5. Discusses the application of microcomputers by grower