Farmers’ perceptions and willingness to adopt mobile forecasting applications for crop production and subsidized fertilizer distribution

¹ Study Program of Agribusiness Department, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
² Study Program of Information Technology, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
³ Department of Management, Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Manajemen YKPN Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
⁴ Study Program of Sociology, Universitas Widya Mataram, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
⁵ Study Program of Agricultural Economic, Departement of Agriculture Socio-Economic, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
⁶ Department of Plantation Management, Politeknik LPP Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
⁷ Master’s Program of Manajemen Agribusiness, Departement of Agriculture Socio-Economic, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
⁸ Study Program of International Relations, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
⁹ Study Program of Biology Education, Universitas Muhammadiyah Prof. Dr. Hamka,
¹⁰ Study Program Master of Development Extension, Universitas Negeri Surakarta, Center of Java, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract

Fluctuations in the production and prices of strategic commodities remain a major challenge in Indonesian agriculture, compounded by the suboptimal distribution of subsidized fertilizers. Mobile forecasting applications offer potential to predict yields and fertilizer needs adaptively. This study analyzes farmers' perceptions and willingness to adopt the application in four districts in the Special Region of Yogyakarta with a sample of 80 farmers. Data were collected through Likert-scale questionnaires and open-ended questions, then analyzed using Spearman's correlation. Findings show that farmers' perceptions were moderate (mean score 3.57), with the highest ratings for ease of use, while perceived direct benefits on income and price risk remained uncertain. Willingness to adopt was high (mean score 3.82), reflecting readiness to adjust planting schedules, provide production data, and attend training. However, concerns over internet costs and rural infrastructure persist. Spearman's correlation revealed a very strong relationship between perception and willingness to adopt (r = 0.774; p < 0.01). Overall, farmers show cautious optimism toward mobile forecasting. Adoption will require supportive strategies including training, socialization, extension, and affordable access. The study highlights the potential of mobile forecasting to improve production efficiency and fertilizer distribution if implemented consistently and sustainably.