A Methodological Approach to Evaluate Livestock Innovations on Small-Scale Farms in Developing Countries

• Published in: Future internet Vol. 8; no. 4; p. 25
• Main Authors: García-Martínez, Antón, Rivas-Rangel, José, Rangel-Quintos, Jaime, Espinosa, José, Barba, Cecilio, de-Pablos-Heredero, Carmen
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 03-06-2016
• Subjects: dynamic capabilities; learning curve of innovation; relational coordination; viability
• ISSN: 1999-5903; 1999-5903
• DOI: 10.3390/fi8020025

The aim of the study was deepening the knowledge of livestock innovations knowledge on small-scale farms in developing countries. First, we developed a methodology focused on identifying potential appropriate livestock innovations for smallholders and grouped them in innovation areas, defined as a set of well-organized practices with a business purpose. Finally, a process management program (PMP) was evaluated according to the livestock innovation level and viability of the small-scale farms. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the impact of PMP on the economic viability of the farm. Information from 1650 small-scale livestock farms in Mexico was collected and the innovations were grouped in five innovation areas: A1. Management, A2. Feeding, A3. Genetic, A4. Reproduction and A5. Animal Health. The resulting innovation level in the system was low at 45.7% and heterogeneous among areas. This study shows the usefulness of the methodology described and confirms that implementing a PMP allows improving the viability an additional 21%, due to a better integration of processes, resulting in more efficient management.