Expertise

Digitalisation

Embracing the latest digital tools in agriculture

Digitalisation

Digitalisation

As the agricultural industry grows in both scale and complexity, digital technologies are becoming essential to maintaining operations, streamlining processes, and designing new strategies for efficient and sustainable food production. When implemented correctly, digitalisation can provide agribusinesses with the tools they need to grow, and for many experts it holds the key to improving global food productivity and tackling pressing issues of resilience, sustainability, and food security in the industry.

A range of mature and nascent digital tools have emerged in recent years, from mobile technologies, data analytics, and IoT, to satellite imaging, remote sensing, and artificial intelligence. These tools can empower both large-scale agribusinesses and smallholders, however the necessary access and funding required to implement them is not always available. Furthermore, the need for specialised training and upfront costs can cause apprehension among investors. For businesses considering investment in this sector, it is crucial that they weigh up the costs and benefits of digitalisation and develop a sound and informed business plan.

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Benefits of Digitalisation

Data collation:

By combining tools such as remote sensing, satellite imagery, and artificial intelligence, businesses can gather and analyse vast amounts of data, allowing them to identify patterns, make predictive forecasts, and improve their resource management.
Digital tools can provide smallholders with better access to information, inputs, and markets, allowing them to better maintain their land, optimise their resource use, strengthen their supply chain relationships, and increase their productivity.

Supply chain management:

Technologies like blockchain and IoT can establish better transparency, efficiency, and traceability across food systems. These digital tools can help businesses keep a record of their inventory, as well as its origins, ultimately improving food safety and quality. The ability to track stock in real time supports forecasting, streamlines logistics, reduces waste, and builds consumer trust.
Digital tools facilitate personalised interactions through social media, forums, and targeted ads, fostering loyalty and providing insights for future strategies.

Identifying the most suitable digital tools to streamline your operations

Guiding clients in the implementation and application of digital tools in agriculture.

Our expertise

At Farrelly Mitchell, our consultants are committed to the digital revolution in agriculture, boasting a track record of success in identifying and implementing technologies that boost productivity, create value, and stimulate growth for our clients. We pride ourselves on staying ahead of the curve, and we are well attuned to the very latest cutting-edge technology and digital tools in agriculture. We offer comprehensive assessments of your ongoing operations to identify suitable technologies, and we can diligently evaluate the financial and strategic viability of implementation. Moreover, our team provides crucial training and re-education to workers to ensure that new tech is integrated with your workforce efficiently and effectively.

Senior Food & Agribusiness Analyst
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Frequently asked questions

Explore our FAQ for answers to common agribusiness queries. Can’t find your question? Contact our expert team for tailored assistance.

What are the main benefits of digitalisation in agriculture?

Digitalisation in agriculture offers several benefits, including improved data collation through tools like remote sensing and AI, empowerment of smallholders with better access to information and markets, and enhanced supply chain management through technologies like blockchain and IoT.

How can digitalisation help in addressing global food productivity and sustainability issues?

Digital technologies in agriculture can significantly contribute to increasing global food productivity and tackling issues related to resilience, sustainability, and food security. These technologies enable efficient resource management, predictive forecasting, and optimisation of agricultural practices.

What are some common digital tools used in agriculture, and how do they work?

Common digital tools in agriculture include mobile technologies, data analytics, IoT, satellite imaging, and artificial intelligence. These tools aid in gathering and analysing vast amounts of data, enabling better decision-making, improving resource management, and providing real-time insights into agricultural operations.

What challenges do agribusinesses face in implementing digital technologies?

Challenges include the need for specialized training, the high upfront costs of technology, and limited access to necessary funding. Businesses must carefully weigh the costs and benefits and develop a well-informed business plan for digitalisation.

How can small-scale farmers access and benefit from digital agricultural technologies?

Small-scale farmers can access these technologies through various means such as government initiatives, public-private partnerships, agricultural extension services, and collaborations with tech companies. Mobile-based agricultural apps and community-based digital training programs can also play a key role in making these technologies more accessible.

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By embracing new digital technologies, you can propel your business to new heights and help to bridge the growing digital divide in the industry. Contact our digitalisation experts today to learn more about our services and seize a brighter future for your business.

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