Analyzing data solutions in modern horticulture

The horticulture industry is increasingly shifting toward data-driven approaches to enhance productivity and optimize resource use. As the industry evolves, there's a growing recognition of the value of precise data management and environmental control in achieving consistent, high-quality crop yields.

This requires the ability to monitor greenhouses and other controlled environments 24/7 in order to maintain desired conditions, identify any issues, and intervene as necessary. Argus Controls developed TITAN Envoy to deliver these critical capabilities.

TITAN Envoy is an intuitive and easy-to-use cloud-based software system that acts as an extension of the Argus TITAN 900 system, providing secure remote access for growers to their facilities while delivering valuable data insights through a streamlined, visual user interface.

Purpose, features & use cases
TITAN Envoy is a cloud-based remote-access software system designed to complement the TITAN 900 system and provide a simplified interface for handling day-to-day tasks related to managing greenhouses and growth chambers.

Envoy makes it easier for operators to access and control their systems remotely and securely. Enabling them to focus on essential monitoring and manual intervention capabilities without the complexity associated with more advanced systems.

Key TITAN Envoy features include cloud-based access; a user-friendly interface, multi-site visibility, manual intervention and equipment overridden, and monitoring by exception.

While Envoy can deliver value in a diverse set of growing environments and use cases, it's particularly valuable for certain user groups, such as junior growers and apprentice operators, facilities that lack round-the-clock staffing, and operations needing simplified controls.

It's important to note that unlike the TITAN 900, TITAN Envoy does not allow for the configuration of new equipment or changing system setpoints. It is not designed for users needing to perform detailed system adjustments or customizations. Envoy's focus is primarily on real-time monitoring and immediate manual controls, rather than long-term system configuration.

TITAN Envoy thus serves as a practical tool for day-to-day operations, particularly in scenarios where simplicity and ease of access are crucial. Its design makes it a valuable addition to existing Argus TITAN systems, providing essential functionalities without the complexities of full system management.

What are the benefits of TITAN Envoy?
Designed with simplicity, efficiency, and anywhere access in mind, TITAN Envoy can deliver value to a variety of users and use cases, from novice growers to seasoned professionals, and to horticulture and floriculture vendors of all sizes. Its benefits are threefold:

Ease of onboarding & access
Envoy is installed by an experienced Argus tech who establishes the connection between the client's TITAN 900 system and the Envoy cloud, making it simple and easy to get started. Once Envoy is up and running, users can access it via a browser from anywhere.

Once installed, TITAN Envoy offers an intuitive interface that shortens the learning curve and allows for easy adoption and onboarding. For employees who want additional and more comprehensive onboarding, the Argus Learn system provides an ongoing resource for further familiarization.

Data standardization
Traditional TITAN systems are configured and customized by different users over time—often many years —making it harder to centralize and standardize data for easy monitoring. TITAN Envoy addresses this challenge by presenting consistent and unified data that provides clear, usable insights to inform decision-making and action.

Secure remote access
Envoy's cloud-based infrastructure brings with it maximum system security—a crucial consideration when accessing data from remote locations. Users can safely connect to their Envoy systems without the risk of data compromisation.

TITAN Envoy vs. Argus LIVE: Understanding the differences
A natural question for Argus users about TITAN Envoy is how it differs from Argus LIVE—a web-based interface that mirrors TITAN 900 software running on a facility's local PCs. While both TITAN Envoy and Argus LIVE support remote access and monitoring, Envoy is not a direct replacement for LIVE.

LIVE is a valuable tool for users who need access to TITAN 900's complete interface and comprehensive features, but it requires a direct connection to the on-premise system. Envoy, as mentioned, is based in the cloud and meant for more focused use related to day-to-day management.

The two solutions can provide simultaneous but different value to growers, with Envoy serving as a faster and simpler tool for daily monitoring and remote intervention when needed—one that's easier to use for across a wider range of user roles and experience levels.