Abstract
This research aimed to evaluate the impact of mobile services on the crop farming supply chain using a System Dynamics approach. The study's objectives included developing System Dynamics models for mobile service adoption among key supply chain members, identifying key performance factors, and understanding the dynamic behaviour influenced by adoption. The research questions explored the factors impacting mobile service adoption and the extent of their influence.
The research methodology involved a comprehensive literature review on ICT adoption in agricultural supply chains and employed a System Dynamics approach for modelling. The study focused on the stochastic nature of demand in agricultural supply chains using a dynamic simulation-based method. The model development followed Sterman's guidelines, integrating qualitative and quantitative data.
Findings revealed a gradual adoption pattern among retailers, processors, and farmers, aligning with innovation diffusion models. Sensitivity analysis emphasised the significant impact of service efficiency and reliability on adoption rates. Service pricing minimally affects farmers, while advertising influences processors and farmers. Practical implications suggest targeted resource allocation, emphasis on service quality, and effective advertising campaigns.
The study contributes to understanding technology adoption in supply chains and emphasises System Dynamics modelling dynamic perspective. The conclusion highlights adoption dynamics, the model's reliability, and insights for future research. Limitations include model simplification, prompting suggestions for future research to enhance granularity and consider external variables.
This research not only contributes to technology adoption within supply chains but also advances the broader understanding of System Dynamics modelling applications in complex systems analysis.