Research on World Agricultural Economy

How Does the Adoption of Information and Communication Technology Improve Farmer Welfare? A Systematic Review and Bibliometric Analysis

Fara Shaliza

IPB University

Sumardjo Sumardjo

IPB University

Dwi Sadono

IPB University

Zaim Uchrowi

IPB University

DOI: https://doi.org/10.36956/rwae.v7i2.2794

Received: 29 September 2025; Published: 15 June 2026

Abstract

The adoption of Information and Communication Technology has become a crucial driver of agricultural transformation, helping farmers enhance their skills, decision-making, and access to information. This study examines whether and how the adoption of Information and Communication Technology improves farmer welfare. A systematic review following the PRISMA 2020 protocol analyzed 19 peer-reviewed articles and used bibliometric analysis in Biblioshiny (RStudio) to identify global publication trends and thematic clusters. Publications on this topic have increased significantly after 2020, reflecting rising academic, commercial, and policy interest in digital agriculture. The review demonstrates that Information and Communication Technology adoption enhances farmer welfare through five pathways: improved access to information, faster adoption of innovations, increased productivity and efficiency, expanded market and income opportunities, and strengthened social and gender inclusion. These findings support the hypothesis that digital technology adoption positively affects farmer welfare, particularly when accompanied by adequate infrastructure, institutional services, financing mechanisms, and local knowledge systems. The study contributes by: (1) integrating bibliometric and thematic evidence to provide a multidisciplinary understanding of welfare outcomes; (2) highlighting an overlooked link between digital adoption, social capital, and governance structures; and (3) developing an integrated framework that maps determinants, adoption processes, and welfare effects. These insights are valuable for global stakeholders, as strengthening rural digital infrastructure and literacy can unlock substantial economic gains by boosting productivity, reducing transaction costs, and improving market efficiency. Future research should quantify financial returns from Information and Communication Technology adoption, explore inclusive digital business models, and examine long-term environmental and socio-economic impacts.  

Keywords: Information and Communication Technology; Digital Agriculture; Innovation Adoption; Farmer Wel‑ fare; Digital Literacy

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