HortPlus has received valuable insights from MetWatch users following its first user survey, with results highlighting strong satisfaction levels and a clear direction for future platform development.

The survey, which closed in June, attracted a positive response rate from across the MetWatch community, providing HortPlus with detailed feedback on how the platform is being used and where improvements could be made. HortPlus Director Mike Barley says he’s thrilled with the response to its inaugural survey. “The feedback shows us that MetWatch is delivering real value to New Zealand growers, but equally important is understanding where we can make the platform even more useful for their day-to-day operations.”

Frequent usage demonstrates value

The results revealed impressive engagement levels, with 86% of users reporting that they accessed MetWatch at least once a week, and more than 70% of respondents saying they saved at least one to seven hours of time a week by using insights from the platform. The financial impact of MetWatch was also evident, with 61% of users reporting that the platform has increased their business’ profitability through more efficient crop-management decision-making. Additionally, more than a third of respondents indicated their agrichemical use would increase without access to MetWatch's pest and disease forecasting capabilities.

Weather data is key benefit

An overwhelming 86% of users identified MetWatch’s weather data and forecasts as one of its most valuable features. This reinforces HortPlus's focus on enhancing weather-related tools and data accuracy.

Plant pest and disease models also ranked among the most valuable features identified by users, alongside specialised tools such as the chill-unit calculator and evapotranspiration tool, which provide growers with precise data to make informed decisions on how best to care for their crops.

Recommendation rate solid

The survey results reflect high user satisfaction, with four out of five respondents indicating they would recommend MetWatch to fellow growers, underscoring the platform's reputation within New Zealand's agricultural community, Barley says.

Clear development priorities

Users provided clear direction for future platform enhancements, with 72% expressing interest in a MetWatch mobile app. The ability to connect personal weather station data into HortPlus’ platform attracted support from 36% of respondents and 30% requested direct integration of spray diary functionality.

Barley says the feedback gives HortPlus a roadmap for development priorities.

“A mobile app would make MetWatch even more accessible for growers out in the field and we’ve been considering one for a while, so it’s great to see the survey reinforce this need.”

After the success of its first survey, HortPlus plans to conduct further user surveys in the years ahead to monitor the ever-evolving needs of its users.

Barley congratulates MetWatch users Sarah from Kainui Pack & Cool, Doug from Adama Agricultural Solutions and Marjan from John Austin Ltd who all won $100 Prezzy Cards for completing the survey.

Their participation, along with the rest of the survey respondents, helps ensure MetWatch continue evolving to meet the needs of New Zealand's growing agriculture sector, Barley says.