An integrated decision support system (DSS) to improve the utilisation of productivity data by extension, research and productivity programs : final report BS182S

Abstract

Utilising previous research outcomes, a software application titled SUGARSCAPE was developed to provide extension, research and productivity staff within the Australian sugar industry a means of collating block and farm productivity data.The original concept was to assist extension, research and productivity staff with the production of productivity reports through a suitably designed software application. The application designed by this project increased the scope of previously available productivity report options, and also included a spatial reporting component. Over a period of three years a software application was developed and trialed by a user group. This ensured the end result was derived by the needs of the industry. Towards the end of the project Bureau of Sugar Experiment Stations (BSES) extension staff participated in training sessions using the software application on their own computers; feedback was documented on evaluation forms and will be used as guidelines for further research. To date the software has been received enthusiastically. To assist users a user manual and on-line help documentation have been created and will be distributed with the software application.With the exception of one objective, all project objectives were met. Most of the recommendations for further research have already been undertaken through another Sugar Research and Development Corporation (SRDC) project titled ?Facilitate the accessibility of productivity data by sugarcane farm managers through the SUGARSCAPE productivity software application.? This project will be completed by July 2001.