Proceedings of The 7th International Conference on Research in Business, Management and Finance
Year: 2024
DOI:
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The Impact of Digital Technologies On Farm Operational Activities: A Case Study Analysis Between Germany and Finland
Dorjan Marku, Ardita-Hoxha Jahja, Ines Maurmann
ABSTRACT:
Digitalization is considered as one of the main cornerstones of the European Commission for transforming agriculture, its related activities, and rural regions in the EU. Advancements in digitalization, including the implementation of robots, sensors, drones, GPS, and online platforms, have led to the creation of new activities, products, and services, significantly impacting farm operational activities. This study aims to explore the potential future implications of digitalization in livestock farming in the regions of Baden-Württemberg (Germany) and North Savonia (Finland). The focus will be on examining how digital technologies are transforming livestock farming practices. The findings highlight the potential benefits of digitalization in improving animal welfare, efficiency, and sustainability, as well as addressing challenges in the livestock sector. Quantitative instruments were used to assess how the implementation of digital technologies impacted farm activities. In addition, a structured questionnaire with specific questions was created and distributed online to farmers in livestock farming. Farmers in both countries indicated that the implementation of digital technologies have a significant impact in improving working conditions, safety and health standards, decision-making processes, and increased product quality. However, farmers in Finland and Germany had different opinions regarding the influence of digitalization in several aspects of the farm. Farmers in Finland indicated a significant impact of digitalization in improving cooperation with other chain actors, and access to new markets and financial resources, contrary to farmers in Germany. However, digital adoption at the farm level has an important impact on sustainability that goes beyond the farm because it affects decision-making and sustainability outcomes due to increased vertical integration within the food chain.
keywords: digital adoption; decision-making; efficiency; livestock; on-farm activities