The new system allows quicker delivery of loans made to farmers and ranchers while also making the process more user-friendly. Jonathan Coppess, administrator of the USDA's Farm Service Agency, said the updated system represents a milestone in the department's efforts.
"We must continue to improve the tools that our dedicated state and county office workers use to serve our customers," Coppess said.
He added that development on the new system began in 2004, while the first phase of the project was implemented in 2007. The system has processed more than $3 billion in loans since that time.
The Obama administration and the USDA have made a push to improve communications with rural areas in the country. Last year, representatives from Washington embarked on a rural tour of the country to gather input from people who live in remote areas.
Furthermore, a push has been made to improve broadband connectivity in rural areas to connect them more closely to the rest of the nation.
