Date of Award

2017

Document Type

Master Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Business (Research)

Department

Accounting & Information Systems

First Advisor

Marie Dorgan

Abstract

Technology and in particular, mobile devices can help farmers both from a social and business perspective. This study focuses on the areas preventing farmers using smart phones and the downfalls they might be facing on a regular basis in the adoption of mobile devices. The objectives of this study were to identify what devices are being used and for what purpose, identify who helps the farmer when they are in difficulty with their device, identify if broadband is an obstacle and to develop a set of recommendations based on my research for the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) within the farming community. The methods of research used to obtain the data was a survey with farmers and three focus groups. One focus group was with industry professionals, one focus group with farmers and one focus group with agricultural students. This research was completed between September 2015 and June 2017. This study highlights barriers preventing farmers using mobile devices. There are several barriers that prevent different farmers adopting technology for example; nobody at home to show them how to use the mobile device, lack of quality broadband, fear of using the technology, that all data might be lost and the security of the farmers information. There are many benefits associated with the use of mobile devices that are highlighted throughout this study such as communication outside the home and saving time doing paperwork by completing tasks online such as online banking. Farmers can also view and purchase farm supplies online and monitor weather forecasts through smartphones on the go.

Access Level

info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess

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