A user-centred future for agricultural digital innovation: demonstrating the value of design thinking in an animal health context

Abstract

Purpose: Much of the literature investigating farmer engagement with digital technology has focused on farmer-centred adoption factors. However, more recent research has called for new user-centred approaches to technology design to promote more responsive development and ultimately more successful uptake. Methodology: Responding to these calls, this study draws on Stanford’s design thinking framework and principles to design a digital innovation for use in an animal health context. Findings: The study details how a co-design workshop was used to incorporate end-user needs, values, and requirements for a digital animal health innovation. Additionally, it outlines how co-design approaches can be useful to identify and address innovation design issues early on in the design process. Practical implications: This study highlights the importance of end-user engagement for the design, development, and implementation of digital innovations for the agricultural sector and the importance this has for successful technology development and user uptake. Theoretical implications: This study contributes to the literature on innovation development for agriculture and to the theory on farmer engagement. Originality/value: This study is one of few that applies co-design and design thinking methodologies to the creation of a digital animal health diagnostic tool.