Establishing an Agricultural Information System in Iran

Establishing an Agricultural Information System in Iran

Abstract

In April 2007, the Ministry of Jihad-e-Agriculture Think Tank (MJTT) undertook a critical review of the Agricultural Information System of Iran (AISI) project, initiated in July 2006. This project is a result of comprehensive analyses of existing agricultural information systems within the country, a comparative study of agricultural information systems worldwide, and a profound exploration of modern methodologies, particularly knowledge management, aimed at the development of an efficient agricultural information system in Iran. This article summarizes key aspects discussed during the workshop held on April 21, which included presentations on the necessity of AISI establishment, the methodology for its implementation, cognition states related to its establishment, and a panel discussion on cooperative protocols within AISI.

Introduction

The establishment of an effective Agricultural Information System in Iran (AISI) is a significant endeavor, driven by the recognition of the pivotal role that information systems play in the context of agricultural economics. In this article, we present the key insights and discussions from the April 2007 workshop organized by the Ministry of Jihad-e-Agriculture Think Tank (MJTT).

The Necessity of Agricultural Information System Establishment

Amir Abbas Moazzen, the project manager of AISI, underscored the vital role that information systems play in the economic landscape, particularly in the realm of agricultural economics. Economic aspects of information systems entail considerations of cost-benefit, cost-effectiveness, and value factors. AISI's short-term objectives focus on achieving cost-benefit and cost-effectiveness, thus ensuring that the information system provides competitive advantages to the agricultural industry in Iran. Moazzen emphasized the critical flow of information in the agricultural sector, stating that data, information, and knowledge flow are central factors in formulating successful agricultural mechanization strategies.

The Methodology of Agricultural Information System Establishment in Iran

Askar Norozi, a key collaborator in the AISI project, provided insights into the historical development of information systems in Iran and other countries. He highlighted the significance of an information system in the context of agricultural strategies in Iran, attributing its necessity to factors such as integration, leadership, management, the prevention of parallel activities, and the enhanced utilization of information within the agricultural sector. Norozi elucidated that research and studies conducted within the Ministry of Jihad-e-Agriculture revealed several challenges, including macro challenges, context management challenges, technological challenges, organizational challenges, and human resource challenges. The primary challenge identified is the lack of systematic relations between information system units within the Ministry of Jihad-e-Agriculture organizations and the agricultural sector. Norozi affirmed that research outcomes underscore knowledge management as the optimal approach to fostering unified thought development within the agricultural information system in Iran.

Cognition States in Agricultural Information System Establishment in Iran

Maziar Amirhosseini, another collaborator in the AISI project, presented the theoretical foundation for information system development in Iran. He articulated the establishment of a national theoretical framework specific to agricultural information systems. This framework integrates philosophical models rooted in knowledge theory, encompassing ancient Iranian philosophy, Islamic philosophy, and the knowledge theory of Immanuel Kant. Amirhosseini elaborated on a three-step thought process, commencing with macro ontology, derived from ancient Iranian and Islamic philosophies, which addresses the cognition of existence. The second step involves epistemological thought, influenced by Immanuel Kant's knowledge theory. The final step, micro ontology, embodies pyramidology thought, delineating the structure of a virtual organization within the agricultural information system of Iran. This micro ontology is represented in the form of a pyramid, signifying systematic relationships between all organizations within the Ministry of Jihad-e-Agriculture responsible for information duties. The pyramid model orchestrates these organizations' interactions with the agricultural sector.

Conclusion

The initiation and ongoing development of the Agricultural Information System of Iran (AISI) represent a concerted effort to harness the power of information systems in the agricultural context. Through a rigorous review of existing systems, a comparative analysis of international approaches, and a strong focus on knowledge management, AISI endeavors to create a unified, efficient, and sustainable agricultural information system in Iran. As this project progresses, it holds the promise of significantly enhancing agricultural practices, resource management, and the economic viability of Iran's agricultural sector.

Tags: Agricultural Information, Iran, Information System, Knowledge Management

Labels: Agriculture, Iran, Information

Source: Originally posted by IAALD blogger at Friday, July 13, 2007