Before we could start developing the first Phito App prototype, we needed to understand the real challenges farmers are facing and what they need to overcome them. That’s why we started we user needs assessment..
Over the summer months our partner organizations reached out to farmers across various regions covering Europe’s diverse food systems. Using a combination focus group discussions and over 600 responses to our questionnaires, they helped us to get a better understanding of their everyday struggles. The results will form the basis to identify the key features our app should include. Here is what we found:.
Main challenges
Despite regional differences, many challenges are common among farmers in all 7 Phito food systems. These include:
| Climate Change Impacts | Farmers are struggling to cope with the effects of changing weather patterns. |
| Lack of Digital Connectivity | Many rural areas lack the necessary digital infrastructure like reliable internet access and mobile networks. Additionally, some farmers are hesitant or unable to use digital tools due to a lack of familiarity or training. |
| Water Scarcity | Access to water is a significant issue. |
| High Input Costs | The cost of seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs is high. |
| Market Access | Farmers often find it hard to reach buyers and sell their products. |
Additional challenges
Other challenges mentioned in some areas include:
| Labor Shortages | There’s a lack of workers in some areas. |
| Generational Replacement | Fewer young people are taking up farming. |
| Supply Chain Issues | Farmers face difficulties in sourcing quality inputs. Additionally, poor communication and coordination among suppliers, distributors, and other stakeholders exacerbate these problems, leading to delays and inefficiencies. |
| Organic Market Limitations | There’s limited access to organic markets |
| Limited Processing and Distribution Channels | Farmers have few options for processing their products and getting them to market, which limits their profitability and market reach. |
| Administrative Burdens | Complex subsidy processes and poor cooperation with advisors. |
| Environmental Concerns | Issues like drought, poor soil quality, and extreme weather are ongoing threats and might become worse in the future due to climate change. |
| Economic Sustainability | Slim profit margins make it tough to sustain economically. |
Moving Forward
Understanding these challenges is essential for us. We now have a solid foundation to develop the app, ensuring it addresses the real needs of farmers. Our next steps involve using these insights to design effective solutions and define the app’s key features.
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