Análise da utilização de tecnologias da informação móveis e sem fio (tims) nos diferentes elos da cadeia bovina do estado de Goiás

Abstract

The aim of this study is to analyze the use of Wireless and Mobile Information Technology (TIMs, its acronym in Portuguese) in different links of the bovine chain in the state of Goiás and to identify the challenges and opportunities to use these technologies in the studied context. The method used was a single case study that has as unity of analysis the chain of beef cattle in the state of Goiás. The research was conducted in two stages: one exploratory and one descriptive. At the exploratory stage the objective was to become familiar with the topic through the analysis of published studies and through the completion of eight (8) semi-structured interviews with professional associations, certifying agencies and TIMs suppliers representatives. The descriptive stage held thirteen (13) semi-structured interviews with representatives from eleven companies belonging to the mentioned chain links (raising, breeding, fattening, frigorific and trader) in order to understand the process of the adoption or not adoption of TIMs. The analysis of the results points that frigorific is the strongest link of the chain. The lack of coordination is an impediment for both traceability and for the use of TIMs. For this chain, the understanding of the technology embraces mainly the management, irrigation, breeding and feeding techniques, this means that although TIMs are present, they are not perceived as priority technologies for the chain operation. Problems of basic infrastructure such as electricity and telecommunications, and the understanding of technological and information needs of rural properties hinder the implementation and adoption of TIMs. The lack of regulation regarding the use of electronic devices slows the application of the RFID earrings in order to ensure traceability. The technology costs and the low qualification of the workforce are also mentioned as hindering to adopt the technology. It is observed that at the same time the Brazilian traceability system establishes strict controls on the operation it gives room for late cattle control. One can notice that traceability is intensively worked at the fattening link, which is closer to the frigorific. It is also noticed that the frigorific, for being the most “powerful” link in the chain and the one with greater needs of the traceability to attend the European market demands the traceability, however the costs of this traceability are farmers’ responsibility. The Europe award has been reduced gradually, discouraging many farmers to remain in the traceability system (SISBOV). However, it was confirmed that besides its possible use to traceability, and despite some difficulties to adopt the technology, Information Technology and TIMs bring several benefits to the organizations management, such as better control of: inventory individual costs, time production volume, sales forecast, employee productivity, reduction in entry errors, increased efficiency of management, security for stockholders, and the improvement of quality and availability of the information.