Revitalizing agricultural sciences with design sciences

In this perspective article, I explain why agricultural sciences are facing what I consider to be design issues, and why I strongly believe that agricultural sciences would benefit from more dialogue on these issues with design sciences. Using two examples concerning the design of Decision Support Systems (DSS) and of agricultural systems, I discuss the methodological and conceptual contribution that design sciences can make to agricultural sciences. I then elaborate on how design sciences are most needed to help us revitalise agricultural sciences so that they can more effectively support farmers and agricultural stakeholders on their road to sustainability - a process which requires a radical, creative and innovative design effort.

Automated summary

This perspective article discusses the design issues in agricultural sciences and the importance of dialogue with design sciences. Through examples of Decision Support Systems design and agricultural systems design, the article highlights the methodological and conceptual contributions that design sciences can make to agricultural sciences. It emphasizes the need for design sciences to revitalize agricultural sciences in order to effectively support farmers and agricultural stakeholders on the path to sustainability.