The Agricultural Research-Technology Transfer Interface: A Knowledge Systems Perspective

This chapter explores the usefulness of the Agricultural Knowledge and Information System (AKIS) concept for improving the management of links between research and technology transfer and looks at some of the development issues facing AKIS management. It discusses the components needed when modeling the AKIS and issues in the management of AKIS. The chapter summarizes and focuses on knowledge management and examines some of the development issues which management must consider when designing a new AKIS, or manipulating an existing one. The concept of an AKIS should be distinguished from that of a management information system. The total impact of an AKIS should be more than the sum of the impacts of its constituent parts: an important goal of the analysis, design and management of an AKIS is to increase the synergy of its components. However, non-farm employment opportunities are not growing fast enough in many areas affected by technology-driven development.