Articles
TOWARDS AN AUTOMATED SYSTEM OF MANAGEMENT ADVICE IN GLASSHOUSE HORTICULTURE
When the system was introduced in the field possible users were found to be somewhat reluctant.
This paper is intended to initiate a discussion to identify the cause of this reluctance.
The factors which can be regarded as playing a part in delaying the system can be divided into internal and external factors.
Internal factors directly concern the approach and the knowledge level of the builders of the system.
External factors concern persons and organizations from outside, such as knowledge levels of third parties and organizational structures.
The internal and external influences were discussed with the persons involved.
The following aspects were mentioned comparatively often:
- One has a certain fear of innovative systems which are introduced (too) fast.
- The system is too vague as regards the direct influence on the operating results.
- The organizational structure of the advisory service and the horticultural industry is only moderately suited to such a system.
- The interested parties were almost unanimous in their opinion that greater involvement in the pilot study was desirable.
The main conclusion is that processes of change must in general be planned and organized much better.
In (large) organizations it is necessary for a team to function which directs its intention continuously to the motivation for change of the persons involved.
The organization must get the opportunity to experience a balanced growth process A well-considered plan for the introduction of automated systems is necessary.
Cooperation and effective motivation of all those involved is indispensable.