Shared digital agricultural technology on farms in Southern Germany-analysing farm and socio-demographic characteristics in an inter-farm context

• DOI: 10.1007/s11119-025-10235-3
• Publication Date: 2025-03-31T14:04:11Z
• Authors: Michael Gscheidle; Thies Petersen; Reiner Doluschitz
• Keywords: Precision Agriculture; Agricultural machinery

Abstract Introduction Up till now, digitalisation in agriculture has almost only been discussed the context of large farms. However, sooner or later, ongoing will reach agricultural sector as a whole. Indeed, even smaller farms can also benefit from opportunity and make profitable use digital technology by adopting inter-farm organisational forms e.g. collaboration between farmers contractor services. This article seeks to gain better understanding transformation process validate relevant forecasts analysing farm socio-demographic characteristics that have possible influence on likelihood general regardless form. Methodological approach Univariate analysis approaches bivariate were selected describe sample. A binary regression was used analyse results written online survey southern Germany. The listed hypotheses H1 H10 serve theory-based conceptual framework for statistical within logistic model. Results this study are based sample 165 farmers, 36.4 % (n=60) whom an basis. covers n=89 Baden-Württemberg n=76 Bavaria. Most (87.3 %) considered themselves perfectly capable using technologies confidently after it had explained them once (x̅=2.52, s=1.02, scale: 1=completely true 6=not at all), with 38.2 across farms, means they together. Certain factors which small-scale regions identified model operational characteristics. Using methodological approach, eight predictors identified, three positive technology: availability two external labourers, farm's focus “finishing” “other” activities such taking horses livery fattening livestock. Farms less than 200 hectares, no clear succession plan, whose managers under 30 years old likely technology. Conclusions In study, several influencing play role shared technology, especially empirical obtained show both negative influences Forms cooperation central establishment capital-intensive systems therefore emphasises widespread economical be achieved quickly, through established collaborations other stakeholders machinery rings contractors.