Precision Livestock Farming : En studie på användarvänlighet och användbarhet

Livestock farms have recently experienced a significant growth in their size and this is due to the increase in animal products. This has a technical impact on farmers' daily activities. As there are more animals, it becomes more difficult for the farmers to monitor, take care of and ensure the animals are treated in a healthy manner. The purpose of this study is to examine how farmers are affected by the use of the Precision Livestock Farming (PLF) systems and how they have come to accept the technology. The study will take up an important aspect of the impact and effect of PLF. The aim of the study is to find out how farmers are affected by PLF systems in regard to Ease of Use (EOU) and Usefulness. A total of five semi-structured interviews consisting of two researchers, one product advisor, one support worker and one farmer were conducted. An observation was also conducted along with the farmer and support worker. During the interviews, the participants answered our questions regarding PLF and its EOU and Usefulness. The data was analyzed using a thematic analysis and the results showed that PLF systems are important and useful but need further EOU development. Furthermore, the results showed that the poorly designed user interfaces impact the farmers’ attitude and intention towards using the system, which also affects their attitude towards the Usefulness of the PLF systems. The research confirms the importance of including farmers under the development phase of PLF systems. Lastly, this research might be the foundation for further research on how to improve and develop a more user-friendly PLF system.