Insights into adoption of farming practices through multiple lenses: an innovation systems approach*. Issue 8 (17th November 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Clarke, Elizabeth; Jackson, Tamara M.; Keoka, Khamlouang; Phimphachanvongsod, Viengsavanh; Sengxua, Pheng; Simali, Phetsamone; Wade, Len J.
• Is Part Of: Development in practice. Volume 28:Issue 8(2018)
• Page Start: 983
• Page End: 998
• Publication Date: 2018-11-17
• Subjects: Aid – Development policies -- Civil society – Participation, Partnership -- Environment (built and natural) – Agriculture, Climate change, Food security -- Labour and livelihoods -- East Asia; Technical assistance -- Developing countries -- Periodicals; Economic assistance -- Developing countries -- Periodicals; Developing countries -- Economic conditions -- Periodicals; 338.91091724
• DOI: 10.1080/09614524.2018.1504890
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0961-4524

Abstract

ABSTRACT: A complex systems approach to innovation provides rich insights into the drivers, barriers, and key elements for innovation in rural systems. Through a case study of dry direct seeding (DDS) in smallholder systems in Laos, this article reveals a "perfect storm" of challenges and opportunities resulting in rapid adoption. Labour shortage, climate variability, and machinery availability are key factors. The lessons for the research and development community are that; every local system and situation is unique; focusing on one set of factors is never sufficient; and that timelines for change may be long and require persistence and longer term commitment from donors.