ABSTRACT
Production technology comprises the methods used to cultivate, harvest, store, process, handle, transport, and prepare food for consumption. Estimates of the impact of new technologies on production are useful because they are the starting point for assessments of economic and social benefits at both the farm and national levels. In addition to improved potato varieties, technical advances have been achieved in pest control, seed systems, and post-harvest technology. International agricultural research centers supply national programs with institutional technology rather than production technology per se. Two criteria were used in selecting cases: they should illustrate types of impact that could be achieved by other national programs, and sufficient documentation should be available to describe the case. The organizational structures of successful potato programs vary greatly. Most successful potato programs have paid close attention to seed production and distribution. Hence, a reasonable target for many seed potato programs is no more than a third or a fourth of farmers’ total seed requirements.
