COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SELECTING SEED VARIETIES

摘要

A computer system includes an interface through which a user can input several parameters related to a growing operation, as well as certain preferences of the user and the user's tolerance for risk. Using these parameters, the system can reduce what may be a large list of commercially available seed varieties into a smaller, more manageable list of seed varieties that are compatible with the parameters input by the user. From this list, the user can preferably select a seed variety to obtain predictions of one or more outcomes to result from using that seed variety in the growing operation of interest. These predictions may include predictions of certain crop traits levels, profits, etc., which are preferably displayed in the form of probability distribution functions, thereby allowing the user to assess the likelihood of realizing a particular level of profit, yield, etc. Alternatively, the system can perform an optimization routine in which the system evaluates each seed variety that is compatible with the growing operation of interest to identify those varieties that are projected to produce the highest profits, yields, or other outcomes of interest to the user. The selection of optimal seed varieties can also be based upon the user's risk tolerance. The preferred system allows the user to develop planting strategies at the subfield or plot level, and then to aggregate projected profits, yields, etc. for a particular field having multiple plots, a particular farm having multiple fields, and a particular firm having multiple farms. This computer system is preferably implemented over a publicly distributed computer network, such as the Internet, to provide growers with a convenient, interactive decision support tool which aids them in making complex planting decisions.