Author: Julie Menadi (ACTA)
With a consortium of 24 partners across 19 countries, the CODECS project leverages a network of 20 Living Labs (LLs) to co-create and test innovative digital solutions. These LLs bring together farmers, advisors, researchers, and other stakeholders to foster the adoption of digital technologies that benefit the entire agricultural ecosystem.
On-farm demonstrations
A key element of the CODECS approach is the organisation of demonstration events, both on-farm and virtual. These events allow farmers to discover new technologies in action, exchange experiences, and identify best practices for their own farms.
Held at designated Demo Farms within each LL, these events are a showcase for digital technologies and provide a hands-on learning environment for participants. Farmers can observe the technologies in operation, ask questions to experts, and discuss their applicability to their own contexts.
Virtual demonstrations
For a broader reach, CODECS also organises virtual demonstrations. These events feature videos, presentations, and virtual tours, where participants can discover the technologies remotely and interact with experts. This online format ensures accessibility for stakeholders who cannot attend in person.
CODECS Demonstration goals and progress
CODECS aims to conduct a total of 40 on-farm demonstrations and 20 virtual demonstrations throughout the project, with each LL organising at least two on-farm demonstrations at the same Demo Farm and one virtual demonstration. You can stay informed about the upcoming events on the CODECS website.
The project’s Handbook of Demonstration of Digital Technologies reports the success of the demonstration events organised so far. The events have attracted a large audience and have provided valuable feedback on the technologies, user acceptance, and perceptions of costs and benefits.
Next steps in Demonstration activities
To build on its success, CODECS has outlined several priorities for advancing its demonstration activities:
- Strengthening the Demo Farm network: Expanding the network to include a greater diversity of farming systems and geographical regions.
- Improving the evaluation methodology: Refining tools such as the Demo Assessment Grid and post-demo online surveys to better measure the impact of events on digital technology adoption.
- Disseminating the results: Sharing outcomes widely through the CODECS website, publications, webinars, interactive storybooks, and events.
- Integrating the results into other project activities: Using feedback from demonstrations to inform analyses of digital ecosystems and cost-benefit assessments.
Demonstration events play a crucial role in promoting the digitalisation of European agriculture. By providing a platform for innovation, knowledge sharing, and collaboration, CODECS aims to create a conducive digital ecosystem that benefits farmers, advisors, and the entire agricultural value chain.
