Of all the major field operations, most industry observers see advancements other than speed alone, playing a more significant role in improving crop harvest productivity. And while the narrow planting window seems to get the most attention, a narrow harvest window often causes the farmer as much heartburn.

While harvest efficiency will never be 100% and it's critical to get harvest completed, paying attention to details during harvest could increase profitability, says Kansas State University Extension.

While speed has taken center stage in ag's push for increased productivity, industry experts say it will take more than going faster through the farm field to meet the growing demand for agricultural commodities.