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Use of information technology in South African agriculture

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  • Ortmann, Gerald F.

Abstract

Rapid developments in information technology have exposed South African farmers to the potential benefits of using these technologies in farm decision-making. Use of computers on South African commercial farms is increasing, with three studies showing adoption rates of 48 percent (1993), 64 percent (1996) and 72 percent (1998). About 38 percent of computer users in a 1998 survey of commercial maize farmers had access to the Internet. Spreadsheets and financial management software are popular amongst commercial farmers, while use of Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are being used more widely in South African agriculture. Small-scale farmers in developing areas rely mainly on government and private industry extension services for farm information.

Suggested Citation

  • Ortmann, Gerald F., 2000. "Use of information technology in South African agriculture," Agrekon, Agricultural Economics Association of South Africa (AEASA), vol. 39(01), pages 1-10, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:ags:agreko:54195
    DOI: 10.22004/ag.econ.54195
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    File URL: https://ageconsearch.umn.edu/record/54195/files/03%20Ortmann%20March%202000.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Sarahelen Thompson & Steven T. Sonka, 1997. "Potential Effects of Information Technologies on the Economic Performance of Agricultural and Food Markets," American Journal of Agricultural Economics, Agricultural and Applied Economics Association, vol. 79(2), pages 657-662.
    2. Marvin T. Batte & Eugene Jones & Gary D. Schnitkey, 1990. "Computer Use by Ohio Commercial Farmers," American Journal of Agricultural Economics, Agricultural and Applied Economics Association, vol. 72(4), pages 935-945.
    3. Stockil, R.C. & Ortmann, Gerald F., 1997. "Perceptions Of Risk Among Commercial Farmers In Kwazulu-Natal In A Changing Economic Environment," Agrekon, Agricultural Economics Association of South Africa (AEASA), vol. 36(2), pages 1-21, June.
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    1. Ferrer, Stuart R.D. & Schroeder, D.H. & Ortmann, Gerald F., 2003. "Internet Use And Factors Affecting Adoption Of Internet Applications By Sugarcane Farm Businesses In The Kwazulu-Natal Midlands," 2003 Annual Conference, October 2-3, 2003, Pretoria, South Africa 19078, Agricultural Economics Association of South Africa (AEASA).

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