A Theoretical Framework for Analysing Technology Transfer Processes Using Agent-Based Modelling: A Case Study on Massive Technology Adoption (AMTEC) Program on Rice Production

The technology transfer (TT) process has been studied from different approaches to improve productivity and competitiveness in agricultural chains. However, the process is not always presented successfully due to heterogeneity and inequality in the technological capacities (TC) of the agents that are part of the transfer process, in addition to the geographical context, the interaction networks and decision rules, which are key factors to understand the TT phenomenon. In this context and as a case study, the Colombian National Federation of rice growers promoted the development and adoption of technology that increased crop competitiveness and sustainability by implementing a technology transfer program known as the Massive Technology Adoption Program (AMTEC-Adopcion Masiva de Tecnologia) on rice. With the AMTEC program, average production costs were reduced by 26% (USD 119 per hectare), and it increased average yields by 23% (1.27 tonnes per hectare), which shows the importance of introducing technologies in productive chains in developing countries. This research provides a better understanding of the TT processes, based on the analysis of the interaction dynamics and behaviour patterns between the agents (i.e., generators, intermediaries, or users) in the TT processes. As an analysis tool, the agent-based modelling paradigm (ABM) was proposed to study the emergence at the macro-level of behaviour patterns of a system from the interactions of semi-intelligent agents at the micro-level, using experiments.

Automated summary

The technology transfer process in agricultural chains is impacted by factors such as technological capacities, geographical context, interaction networks, and decision rules. The Colombian National Federation of rice growers successfully implemented a Massive Technology Adoption Program, resulting in reduced production costs and increased crop yields. This research provides insights into the dynamics of technology transfer processes through the analysis of interactions between agents and the use of agent-based modelling.