News article

Data- driven growing: smarter control, less manual work

How can technology actually make life easier instead of more complicated?
News
29 July 2025

Technology plays an increasingly important role in optimizing climate, irrigation, and energy use in greenhouses. But what does that look like in your day-to-day work? How can technology actually make life easier instead of more complicated?

This evolution of horticulture is driving what we call data-driven growing, a shift toward using data-driven insights and intelligent automation to optimize greenhouse operations. The goal? To make real-time adjustments with precision, reducing the need for manual interventions while improving overall efficiency.

According to Glastuinbouw Nederland, this digital transformation is not just a trend but a necessity for the future of the sector:

"Growers are using digital tools more and more to fine-tune their strategies. By using climate data, energy insights, and crop models smartly, we can grow more efficiently and more sustainably.”

At Priva, we create solutions to help you future-proof your business. In this article, you’ll discover how our latest innovations give you more control, efficiency, and insight so you can grow with confidence.

Remote control, simplified

Managing your greenhouse shouldn't mean spending hours behind a screen. But building custom dashboards used to take up valuable time, especially when all you wanted was quick access to your most-used settings.

With Priva’s new widget library in Priva Operator, that’s changing. You can now build your dashboards faster using predefined widgets, like the modulating light widget, which instantly shows the status of your lighting systems across locations.

It’s all designed to help you stay in control from wherever you are, without the hassle. Less time on setup, fewer chances for error, and more time to focus on your crop.

Better climate control starts with better data

You make critical decisions every day based on climate data. But when weather conditions shift quickly, traditional sensors can fall short leading to adjustments that don’t quite hit the mark. 

That’s why we offer high-end weather station sensors designed to work seamlessly with Priva process computers. These advanced sensors give you:

  • Up to 5x more accurate temperature and humidity readings
  • Detailed wind direction and speed for sharper climate models
  • Reliable light measurements, even during sunrise and sunset

With more precise insights at your fingertips, it’s easier to create a stable climate and use energy more efficiently. That means fewer surprises, better growing conditions, and more peace of mind.

“Accurate data is the foundation of good climate control. With these advanced sensors, growers can rely on precise measurements so their systems respond to what’s really happening, not just what’s expected.” – Jordy Finkers, Product Owner Sensors at Priva.

Smarter fertigation, healthier crops

You know how important the right nutrient balance is for a healthy crop. With Precision Irrigation Management (PIM),  you get real-time insights into key values like drain, EC and pH so you can fine-tune your strategy and avoid plant stress.

Using the Installation & Maintenance (I&M) tool, these PIM sensors can now be configured remotely. The tool also allows you to manage smart bridges and other devices from a distance, making setup and adjustments much easier, especially in larger or multi-site operations.

Ready to turn your drain into gain?

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Set your preferences

Today’s greenhouses bring together people from all over the world. That diversity is a strength, but only if everyone can work confidently with the tools provided. Whether you or your team speaks Dutch, Polish, Spanish, or another language, the system is accessible in 15 different languages. The display language of Priva's cloud applications adjusts automatically to your browser language. It is also possible to set your language preference. It means fewer misunderstandings, smoother collaboration, and a more inclusive working environment.

You can also fine-tune exactly which location(s) or greenhouse(s) an employee or installation partner can access. An employee of an installation partner can be granted access to the Installation & Maintenance (I&M) tool for a specific greenhouse. This also allows for remote control of smart bridges and other equipment, making installations and adjustments much easier, especially for larger companies with multiple locations.

The future of digital cultivation

Developments within Priva One, Connext, Compass, and Operator are making digital cultivation smarter, more inclusive, and more accessible. With better control over climate, irrigation, lighting, and team collaboration, you can take the next step toward a more efficient and resilient business without unnecessary complexity.

Curious what this could mean for your greenhouse? Our specialists are here to help you explore the possibilities.