Digitalisation of agricultural knowledge and advice networks: A state-of-the-art review

• Published in: Agricultural systems Vol. 180; p. 102763
• Main Authors: Fielke, Simon, Taylor, Bruce, Jakku, Emma
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.04.2020
• Subjects: Agricultural advisory services; Agricultural innovation systems; Connectivity; Governance; Transparency; Connectivity; Transparency; Governance; Agricultural innovation systems; Agricultural advisory services
• ISSN: 0308-521X; 1873-2267
• DOI: 10.1016/j.agsy.2019.102763

Digitalisation is widely regarded as having the potential to provide productivity and sustainability gains for the agricultural sector. However, there are likely to be broader implications arising from the digitalisation of agricultural innovation systems. Agricultural knowledge and advice networks are important components of agricultural innovation systems that have the potential to be digitally disrupted. In this paper, we review trends within agricultural knowledge and advice networks both internationally and in Australia, to anticipate and prepare for potential transformations in these networks. Through a combined structured and traditional review of relevant literature, we come to three key conclusions regarding the state-of-the-art. First, the connectivity of humans and technologies in agricultural knowledge and advice networks and value chains will likely continue to increase. Second, transparency of agricultural practices and informational interaction between farmers, advisors, agri-businesses, consumers and regulators will drive and be driven by growing connectivity. Finally, there are likely to be challenges balancing the priorities of various agricultural stakeholders as agricultural innovation systems digitalise. These findings have implications for the oversight of international agri-food sectors. •Research concerning the digitalisation of agricultural innovation systems is reviewed.•Dominant trends concerning agricultural advisory services are presented.•Connectivity, transparency and governance are found to be key themes.•Australian agricultural knowledge and advice networks provide further context for analysis.