Advancements in technology in equipment used to maintain finely cut turf has helped make the golf course superintendent's job easier. That same technology has resulted in some concerns, chief among them relinquishing control to the proprietary software that runs new equipment.
John Deere recently alleviated at least some of that concern with the launch of a new digital tool designed to enhance how users operate, maintain, diagnose, repair and protect equipment.
Operations Center PRO Service delivers new support capabilities for both connected and non-connected machines across John Deere's equipment lineup, including mechanized golf course equipment. New options include the ability to reprogram the system by installing software when replacing electronic components.
Operations Center PRO Service is designed to provide users with more control over how they use, maintain, diagnose, repair and protect their equipment, and will replace the John Deere Customer Service ADVISOR system that will be phased out over the next year.
The new system is the result of customer feedback, and Denver Caldwell, Deere's vice president of aftermarket and customer support, says the company is focused on changing how consumers "repair their equipment."
Local Deere service providers also can use Operations Center PRO Service to diagnose issues and make repairs — after being granted access by the owner/user.
"Our message to our customers is clear," Caldwell said. "Whether you want the support of your professionally trained and trusted John Deere dealer, to work with another local service provider, or to fix your machine yourself, we've created additional capabilities for you to choose the option that best fits your needs."
Operations Center PRO Service is based on foundational capabilities that are available at no additional cost, including:
- Operator's manuals
- Active and stored diagnostic trouble codes
- Secure software updates
- JDLink information
- Warranty information
Designed to be intuitive and deliver support in real time, the Operations Center PRO Service delivers digital repair content by year and model, providing users with additional relevant information to help accurately and efficiently troubleshoot, diagnose and repair equipment.
The service capabilities of Operations Center PRO Service are available through an annual license fee starting at just $195 USD per machine for customers. Specific features include:
- Machine health insights and diagnostic trouble codes
- PIN-specific machine content, including manuals
- Software reprogramming for John Deere controllers
- Diagnostic readings
- Diagnostic recordings
- Interactive diagnostic tests
- Calibrations
Equipment owners can access Operations Center PRO Service through the John Deere Operations Center. Once connected to the platform, owners can add equipment into their account by serial number. Use of an electronic data link might be required for more advanced features, including software reprogramming. Additional capabilities and features will be added in subsequent updates.