How can you adopt agribusiness technology innovations?

Agribusiness technology innovations can help you increase productivity, efficiency, and profitability in your farming operations. However, adopting new technologies can also pose some challenges, such as cost, compatibility, and learning curve. In this article, you will learn some tips on how to overcome these barriers and successfully implement agribusiness technology innovations in your farm.

1 Assess your needs and goals

Before you invest in any agribusiness technology innovation, you need to have a clear idea of what problem you want to solve or what goal you want to achieve. For example, do you want to improve crop yield, reduce labor costs, enhance soil quality, or optimize water use? By identifying your specific needs and goals, you can narrow down your options and choose the most suitable technology for your farm.

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Jonathan Ogwumike, CDA, GBIP

Data and Business Intelligence Analyst || Operations Manager, at HiiT Plc
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Research what others are doing, how you can improve existing solutions to identified problems may not involve a completely new invention, there's no need to reinvent the wheel especially on the farm with scarce resources.

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2 Research and compare available options

Once you have defined your needs and goals, you can start researching and comparing the different agribusiness technology innovations that can meet them. You can use various sources, such as online platforms, industry publications, peer reviews, and expert advice, to learn about the features, benefits, drawbacks, and costs of each technology. You can also look for case studies or testimonials from other farmers who have used the technology and see how it worked for them.

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Jonathan Ogwumike, CDA, GBIP

Data and Business Intelligence Analyst || Operations Manager, at HiiT Plc
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I have found it helpful to research existing technologies that may be applicable to solving local problems that affect small holders. Local material for building could be abundant and provide a cheaper alternative to purchasing from markets or import foreign tech which may be difficult to maintain in the long run

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3 Test and evaluate the technology

Before you commit to a large-scale adoption of a new technology, you should test and evaluate it on a small scale first. This will help you determine if the technology is compatible with your existing infrastructure, equipment, and practices, as well as if it delivers the expected results and value. You can also use this opportunity to identify any issues or challenges that may arise during the implementation and find ways to address them.

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Jonathan Ogwumike, CDA, GBIP

Data and Business Intelligence Analyst || Operations Manager, at HiiT Plc
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The importance of testing and evaluation cannot be over emphasized. I have personally experienced the problem with providing a solution ( in form of a better machine - on paper ) which locals refused to adopt. Simply because it was too complex and "did too many things at once" not necessarily because it was more expensive than alternatives they had at their disposal.

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4 Train and educate yourself and your staff

One of the key factors for a successful adoption of agribusiness technology innovations is the training and education of yourself and your staff. You need to ensure that everyone involved in the farming operations has the necessary skills and knowledge to use the technology effectively and safely. You can seek training and education from various sources, such as the technology provider, online courses, workshops, or mentors. You can also create a culture of learning and innovation in your farm by encouraging feedback, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

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Jonathan Ogwumike, CDA, GBIP

Data and Business Intelligence Analyst || Operations Manager, at HiiT Plc
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One thing that can also be helpful is to document processes, events and measures taken. This can go a long way to improve knowledge sharing on and off farm. It is also easy to trace events and establish causation etc. if issues arise.

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5 Monitor and measure the impact

After you have implemented the agribusiness technology innovations in your farm, you need to monitor and measure their impact on your productivity, efficiency, and profitability. You can use various tools and methods, such as data analysis, surveys, or audits, to track and evaluate the performance and outcomes of the technology. You can also compare the results with your baseline and goals and see if you have achieved them or if you need to make any adjustments.

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6 Adapt and innovate

Finally, you need to be flexible and adaptable to the changing needs and demands of the agribusiness sector. You should not view the adoption of agribusiness technology innovations as a one-time event, but as an ongoing process of learning and innovation. You should always be open to new opportunities and challenges and seek ways to improve and optimize your farming operations with the help of technology.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How can you adopt agribusiness technology innovations?

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1 Assess your needs and goals

2 Research and compare available options

3 Test and evaluate the technology

4 Train and educate yourself and your staff

5 Monitor and measure the impact

6 Adapt and innovate

7 Here’s what else to consider

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