The aim of Farming management is to have background knowledge of the environment and functions of a farming business and the impact of agriculture on the national economy while managing the factors of production in South African agriculture. A farmer needs a basic understanding of the principles and practices of management in a farming environment, after which the knowledge of and skills in applying the management principles in the role of manager or farmer are developed.

These management and business functions need to be integrated within the farming business. It is important to develop knowledge in marketing (micro- and macro-marketing) and price determination of products to achieve the highest profit. Changes in technology can have a tremendous impact on factors of production and how a farm is managed. Farming management activities stretch far beyond the farm, starting with input suppliers and ending with the consumer.