Adoption of computer-based technology (CBT) in agriculture in Kentucky, USA: Opportunities and barriers

Abstract

We conducted a study to understand the factors affecting farmers' decisions to use computer-based technologies (CBT) so that feasible and farmer-friendly CBT can be developed as farm-decision support systems to improve farm productivity and sustainability. We analyzed data from 314 mail and in-person interview surveys from farmers in Kentucky, USA. We used a logistic regression model to identify sociodemographic factors influencing the adoption of CBT in farm management, production, and marketing by Kentucky farmers. Results suggest that the higher the farmer's education level, the more likely they will use CBT. Younger farmers are more likely to use CBT than older farmers, and the more acres a farmer owns, the more likely they are to use CBT. The results could help improve education and outreach strategies to reach out to farmers with innovative farm management and marketing strategies.