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SPS Planner - Smiths Gore case study
When it comes to dealing with RPA, less human interaction often means smoother results, according to farm business consultant with Smiths Gore, Roy Cox. Based in Winchester, Hampshire, he used Farmplan’s SPS Planner to make around 80 online subsidy applications covering almost 19,000ha (47,000 acres) of southern England on behalf of farming clients in 2008. Just under four million pounds of subsidy was applied for on farms ranging from permanent pasture smallholdings to large arable units. |
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“The key bonus is that it minimises the potential for human error that can delay payments. In our experience transferring what’s on paper into RPA’s systems all too often causes problems. Misreading a six as a nought, or simply keying something in wrong can prove to be costly,” points out Mr Cox.
“We found significant time savings in cross referencing RPA correspondence, not to mention improved accuracy. The software itself adds up field areas and carries out validation checks, minimising any errors you might make when updating information.”
It was relatively time-consuming registering all 80 applicants on the Government Gateway – a one-off procedure. But the Farmplan support staff helped make it as smooth as possible, reports Mr Cox. “We had problems with two Single Business Identifier (SBI) numbers that they sorted out straight away – they seem to know how to get those little niggles resolved remarkably quickly.”
Once set up, the software is simple, straightforward and logical to use, he says. Data is downloaded straight into the electronic forms that you can edit as many times as you like. You can split and combine land parcels with no need to cross out or delete lines, while eligible areas and the area claimed for protein, energy, nuts and Hill Farm Allowance are automatically calculated.
“From our experiences in 2008 you honestly can’t fault it. We set aside plenty of time in case of technical problems or difficulties getting acquainted with the electronic forms. But in the end all 80 claims went through without a glitch, and we received the confirmation of receipt straight away. The Government Gateway is a proven performer through both the PAYE and tax systems and does seem to work remarkably well – it’s a fail-safe mechanism and certainly safer than posting forms.”
Paper sketch maps had to be posted for several applications where field boundaries had changed. Clearly marked with SBI numbers, these were sent with a note and copy of the submission receipt confirming the application had been made online. “We were concerned that paper and online submissions wouldn’t meet at the other end, and were half expecting problems. But again, it all went smoothly.”
Another extra was having quick access to all the applications throughout the year. “Once they’re on the computer, they’re extremely easy to search through in case a client or RPA rings up with a specific enquiry – far easier than having to rummage through reams of paperwork. The software also helps as a quick reference tool when cross-checking Entry Level Stewardship (ELS) forms or the endless surveys that come from Defra and elsewhere.”
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But the biggest surprise came when payments started: “Over fifty per cent of our online applications were paid within the first week of the payment window opening. It may be just a coincidence, but it’s in stark contrast to previous years – we were absolutely taken aback.” |
And his advice to others? “Use the software and do it online this year. As ever with SPS forms, attack your application with a clear head, but you’ll be surprised how logical and easy-to-use this software is. While if the prospect of losing the human touch unnerves you, make use of the advice on offer from Farmplan staff – they are genuinely supportive,” he adds.
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Contact us for details:
Tel: 01594 545000, Email: sales@farmplan.co.uk
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