Cannabis growing is an ancient process, but it gets more sophisticated and effective with the infusion of innovative technologies. Today, technology offers new opportunities in all areas of the cannabis business, from developing new cannabis varieties to delivering cannabis products to users. This article explores the most promising technological tools to bring your cannabis business to a new level.
Tech Supporting Cannabis Production
Technological breakthroughs start first but the most important stage is DNA sequencing. As you probably know, cannabis businesses compete to create the most potent, unusual, and effective cannabis varieties. For example, the combination of Northern Lights and Afghani helped develop a super glue weed variety boasting outstanding characteristics. So, cannabis companies invest in DNA research and tech-based DNA sequencing to discover new variations to satisfy the most demanding customers.
No worries if you are not ready to invest in a high-tech laboratory! There are other ways to enhance your cannabis production through technology. For example, you can opt for more affordable LED lights that maximize yield if you grow cannabis indoors. LED lights have several significant advantages compared to traditional HPS bulbs, as they:
- Consume less power;
- Have a longer lifespan;
- Create just the right amount of warmth (less strain on climate control).
Light is only one of the aspects that need control during cannabis cultivation. Humidity, temperature, and soil characteristics should also be tracked hourly to optimize the growing process, so you need various sensors that would do it accurately and efficiently. New-generation sensors can collect this data and send it to you in real-time and alert you when things get out of control.
After you collect your yield, you can turn to advanced cannabis extraction technologies. These are increasingly used to extract different chemical components from the plant and create various products such as CBD oils or tinctures. In this way, you can increase the range of the product line and attract more clients. By the way, you don’t have to try the old-school trial-and-error method: the mounting evidence on extraction technologies and their strengths and weaknesses helps cannabis producers find sustainable and effective cannabis extraction methods.
Tech for Processing Payments
When it comes to selling your products, technology is everything. You will hardly be able to build a successful business unless you go online and find a reliable payment processing method. The problem is that using online transactions and credit cards for purchasing cannabis is not always possible in the United States, so producers actively seek workarounds.
Blockchain technology is a lifesaver for cannabis companies as it allows for safe and reliable cryptocurrency payments that are not regulated by the government as much as traditional payment methods. Other advantages of blockchain include the following:
- Increases trust among customers;
- Makes payments secure and transparent;
- Integrates into new businesses easily;
- Ensures good traceability of funds.
Another less obvious benefit of blockchain is the ability to connect with young customers on a cultural level. Many young people prefer cryptocurrency as a safer alternative to traditional payments, so you can cater to the preferences of this population.
Selling Becomes Easier with New Technology
It’s hard to overestimate the role of a nice-looking and well-functioning website in online retail. If you want your business to succeed, you cannot go without one. Your company’s website should not only contain products you are selling but also offer your customers useful information on cannabis consumption, properties and benefits, recreational application, and so on. It can help you connect with customers by communicating your company’s values and mission as a bridge between the company and its clients.
While traditional websites remain the preferred method for selling and purchasing cannabis, mobile apps also gain momentum. Developing an app with a user-friendly interface and well-thought functions can significantly increase your company’s competitiveness and make cannabis shopping quick and easy.
Technology for Protecting the Growing and Storage Facilities
Cannabis businesses attract criminals who can steal your cannabis supply and equipment and sell them on the black market. As a result, you may lose thousands of dollars and fail to deliver orders on time. You can use advanced digital security systems to reduce financial liabilities and ensure a stable supply of products on the market. Here are some of the most popular:
- Sophisticated alarms;
- Security cameras and video surveillance;
- Keyless entry solutions;
- Digital storage
You can gradually introduce these solutions and mix them based on your business needs and financial capabilities. In this way, you will take sufficient safety measures to deter and prevent unauthorized entrance, thus meeting compliance regulations for your state and avoiding penalties.
Using Data Wisely
Research shows that artificial intelligence (AI) tools help understand customers better and develop more effective marketing campaigns. However, their usefulness goes beyond customer relationship management. AI systems can collect and analyze a large body of data to anticipate trends and volume fluctuations in the market. They make your company more informed and prepared, automatically achieving competitiveness and resilience.
Embrace Technology to Succeed
If you successfully manage your business without technology (or at least with minimal involvement of tech solutions), it does not mean you’ll be able to remain competitive over the years. In fact, companies not introducing advanced tech solutions are likely to fail because innovation increases competitiveness, attracts clients, and ensures revenue growth. Consider adding technology to each level of your cannabis business, and don’t forget to keep up with tech news to adopt the most promising trends.
