Social network analysis for catalysing agricultural innovation: From direct ties to integration and radiality

Both direct and indirect ties among farmers and other relevant actors involved in the exchange of information and knowledge for agricultural innovation are analyzed. Data collection was carried out by asking 120 farmers the following question: '"Who do you learn from and/or who do you consult to get information or knowledge related to technical and productive aspects of your production unit?' Indicators of the Social Network Analysis are used to propose guidelines which enable us to catalyze agricultural innovation. The findings highlight the importance of indirect ties, since these enable farmers to gain better knowledge from external sources. It is advisable that programs focused on fostering agricultural innovation take into account the pre-existing interaction patterns in farmers networks. (C) 2016 Universidad ICESI. Published by Elsevier Espana, S.L.U.