ABSTRACT

This chapter explores some of the major functions of agroclimate models in information systems, suggesting that model builders recognize these functions and anticipate the difficult decisions involved in the design of classification and delivery components. Agroclimatic information is required to support various types of activities, including retrieval and dissemination and research. In order to satisfy the information requirements of policy makers, scientists, and farmers (both independent and corporate), models must deal with the relationships between agricultural production and factors that influence this production, such as climate. There is, however, considerable tension between the model’s parameters and four other criteria for design of information systems: the design procedure itself; the communication and information technology; international institutional arrangements for handling information; and national information policies, reflecting development plans and information handling capacities. Lack of standardization of system design criteria, combined with international institutions’ inflexibility about particular standards, present a problem to developing countries.