Use of social networks to explore smallholder’s adoption of technologies in dual purpose farms

Abstract

During the last decade, the interest in social network analysis (SNA) has grown considerably. Although the utilization of social network analysis to study smallholder innovation systems is still very limited, the aim of this paper is to review research themes concerning the application of SNA in livestock systems and related areas, from the focus of the dissemination of innovation and knowledge, to build a conceptual framework and benchmark to study livestock systems in tropical areas. The findings of this review suggesting that the methodology of social networks is an important tool to know the patterns of adoption and dissemination of technological innovation in the smallholders of dual-purpose cattle (DP). The importance of developing technological adoption patterns of each farmer through two-mode matrix is highlighted.

The Importance of Network Position in the Diffusion of Agricultural Innovations in Smallholders of Dual-Purpose Cattle in Mexico

“…In the technology phase of maturity, capabilities of integration and innovation were provided by the producers, in a decentralized process with highly influential leaders. Thus, the presented findings seem to be consistent with previous research on agricultural technology adoption [3,12,15], which found that farmers' decisions to innovate were based in the context of social interactions among themselves and with agents that promote change.…”

“…According to Rangel et al [2] and Mikecz et al [4], technology adoption was related to size, intensification level, and economic results, pointing out that size is the main factor to determine the technology adoption level. In this regard, dual-purpose (DP) cattle represent an alternative to intensive livestock farming [6,12]. The strengthening of social networks will positively influence the low-cost reproductive technology adoption and its direct application, increasing the system productivity without compromising its sustainability.…”

“…In doing so, DP cattle farms contribute to mitigating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing carbon accumulation [3]. In addition, DP in developing countries has been widely recognized as a pathway out of poverty, a major income-generating activity, and a means of income diversification [6,12,13].…”

“…Furthermore, Villarroel-Molina et al [3] showed the usefulness of network analysis to identify key innovations in adoption success and failure factors in livestock systems. Villarroel-Molina et al [12] used SNA to characterize technological leaders in the genetic area.…”

Organic cotton network in Brazil addressing textile and clothing sector

“…Monaghan et al, (2017) Engaging specifically with four practical concerns associated with SNAnetwork boundary specification, data reliability, context of inquiry and network visualizationcan support managers, consultants or researchers engaging with SNA. Oriana et al, (2019) The most frequently used indicators in livestock are: degree, betweenness and closeness so they could be proposed as structural variables in subsequent quantitative analyzes. Risk aversion, low training and low financial capacity of farmers contributes to technological adoption through interaction with nearby networks over peer influence.…”