Investing in technology is only half the battle: Engaging your workers for success

We know most farmers will encounter similar challenges when running their agribusiness. Difficulties often include recruiting workers, maximising their harvests while taking care of their land. All while keeping prices low enough to meet demands.

Although Agritech can boost productivity, efficiency and sustainability, its advantages are only going to be realised when your workers are engaged and actively using the technology. The success of modern agritech relies on the expertise and training of the workers who are going to be using it (daily, hopefully).

Embracing the digital transformation in agriculture

Agritech is a reliable way to cut down on labor needs, lessen waste from inputs such as chemicals, fertilisers and seeds, as well as boost output with high-yield crops and superior livestock genetics.

Over the years, the farming and agricultural industry has had to undergo a significant transformation. Farms are now businesses, a revolution driven by data and connectivity is here to stay. Agriculture must embrace this digital transformation enabled by innovative technology compared to previous advancements. In the past, progress was largely mechanical, with stronger and more efficient equipment as well as genetic enhancements like superior seeds and fertilizers. Now to make the next big leap, it needs much more sophisticated digital tools.

How digital tools foster connection and productivity among workers

Farm worker engagement is all about how committed and enthusiastic your workers are about their job and the business they work for. In terms of technology, worker engagement refers to the application of digital tools to enhance connection, motivation, and productivity within the workforce. This can look different to every agribusiness. Different influences determine how farm workers adopt new technology, such as personal attributes, the environment of the organisation and the technology's usability.

Understanding the key factors that drive technology adoption among farm workers

Workers' acceptance of technology is shaped by several factors that affect their readiness and capability to adopt new farm tools and systems. A key aspect is how easy the technology is to use. When workers find a system straightforward and user-friendly, they tend to adopt it more readily. If the technology is complicated or demands significant training, they might hesitate to use it.

The perceived benefits of the agritech is essential. If workers think that the new tools will boost their productivity or enhance the quality of their work, they are more likely to incorporate them into their everyday tasks.

The culture of an agribusiness significantly impacts how technology is adopted. Support from leadership is vital. When Managers and Supervisors actively promote and use new technologies themselves, it can encourage workers to follow their lead. The influence of coworkers can enhance adoption rates. When fellow workers share their positive experiences and illustrate the benefits of new tools, it can create a motivating effect, prompting others to engage with the technology.

The impact of poor worker adoption of new technologies

Effectively integrating new technologies requires more than just selecting the right tools and providing access to your team. It's essential to make sure your workforce effectively incorporates and uses them. In the end, how well workers embrace your agritech is key to determining the success of your investment.

• Hidden costs of poor worker adoption

Agribusinesses with poor worker adoption frequently fail to unlock the full benefits of their technology investment. This means the new technology's potential is not fully realised, leading to inefficiencies and unnecessary resource expenditure. If the change isn't handled well, workers might decide to avoid the technology completely. This would result in no performance or productivity improvements for your agribusiness' investment.

• Low software adoption hurts agribusiness productivity

When worker adoption is low in an agribusiness, it can really slow down productivity. If team members are unfamiliar with particular software - they often spend too much time, if any, trying to learn it. Frustration among workers can lead them to ignore the new software, causing a return to old methods. This often results in inefficiencies and mistakes that require more time to address.

• Eroding your competitive edge

Businesses with low worker adoption risk being outpaced by competitors who effectively harness technology, which can create challenges in scaling farming operations. As time goes on, these challenges can lead to a diminished competitive edge. This lack of efficiency results in slower innovation, less adaptability to market shifts and missed growth opportunities for your agribusiness.

• Insufficient training can lead to breaches and compliance issues

Insufficient training and awareness of personal responsibilities can lead to data breaches, compliance challenges and harm an agribusiness' reputation. Failing to adhere to the proper procedures, whether due to misunderstanding or a decision to disengage, can lead to your farm being non-compliant with its legal obligations or industry standards.

Fostering a culture of technology use for enhanced farm operations

The digital transformation shouldn’t have you focused on the latest trends and gadgets, but on making smart choices that are going to really benefit your farm operations. The benefit of this technology lies in how it is used, rather than just its existence.

• Adopt tools for their functionality and user-friendliness

Clearly communicate the goals and expected results of new technology to workers prior to its rollout. If the agritech is difficult to use, demands extensive training and lacks significant benefits, it will likely be seen as unnecessary and face pushback.

• Provide comprehensive training programs

Access to training and resources can help ensure a smoother transition to software, making workers feel equipped and confident in their ability to adapt. Overall, a combination of personal perceptions, agribusiness' support and external factors shape how technology is adopted.

• Create a culture of innovation and openness

An innovative culture promotes ongoing enhancement, flexibility and an openness to change. It fosters teamwork and transparent communication, enabling groups to exchange ideas, test new concepts and gain insights from their experiences. When workers feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feedback it can lead to more effective solutions.

• Gather feedback and making adjustments

Acknowledging and integrating worker suggestions into your safety protocols is important. When someone proposes an idea that could improve safety, it’s important to recognise and celebrate their contribution.

• Recognise and reward effective technology use

Involve your workers in decision-making whenever possible, perhaps by dedicating part of a meeting to highlight their successes. This not only showcases the positive outcomes of their efforts but also reinforces the collective commitment.

You might encounter some growing pains, particularly when team members aren't tech-savvy and are reluctant to adopt new tools they view as inconvenient. The more familiar workers become with new technologies and the more seamlessly these tools are integrated into daily routines, the less resistance you'll face. And hopefully, the more willing they will be to embrace digital changes.

Topics: Safety Management System

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