Diffusion of Innovation for Farmers

The spread of innovation theory is defined as a means by which new ideas are transmitted and adopted (Hayden, 2009). This theory was first used in the 1950's to understand how Iowa farmers used hybrid corn seeds (Hayden, 2009, p.93). It takes an average of seven years for Iowa farmers to switch to hybrid corn, but hybrid seeds increase the yield of crops and produce more cold and drought tolerant corn (Hayden, 2009). The length of time used indicates a positive improvement in agriculture, but it does not guarantee an immediate change in the agricultural process.

One tool that you can use to understand how users adopt new technology comes from research by Everett Rogers in 1962. Mr. Rogers studied how farmers adopt new technology in the book "Innovation Diffusion" and found that adoption rate began to decline and dramatically increased when adopted. He has identified five specific types of technology recruiters: innovators. Innovators first adopted new technology. Innovators are pleased to be at risk, the youngest, the best social class, financial liquidity, social nature, the closest link to scientific resources, and interaction with other innovators. Risk tolerance allows you to adopt the technology they may ultimately fail. Funding will help absorb these failures (Rogers 1962 5th Edition, p.282)

The spread of classical innovation theory and innovation reveals these problems. This theory was promoted by Everett Rogers in his book "Diffusion of Innovations", which was first published in 1962 and is currently the fifth edition. The theory is trying to explain how new ideas and techniques are communicated, why and how fast. Rogers, especially the background emphasized by participants in every "social system", is the key to adopting, advancing and realizing the ultimate goal of autonomous innovation. Diffusion is the process by which participants in social systems spread innovation over time.