DEFINING FOCUS AREAS FOR EXPERT ASSESSMENTS ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES IN THE AGRO-INDUSTRIAL SECTOR

Abstract

The article addresses the challenge of determining priorities for the implementation of digital technologies in agro-industrial enterprises, particularly in the crop production sector, under conditions of limited resources, finances, and personnel. Modern agricultural businesses face increasing pressure to enhance operational efficiency, making the adoption of digital solutions ever more relevant. However, in light of limited resources and a lack of experience with such technologies, selecting priority areas for their implementation is critical. The authors propose using a fuzzy expert evaluation methodology based on linguistic variables. This approach enables the consideration of uncertainties and ambiguities that are characteristic of the early stages of digitalization in the agro-industrial complex. An expert group, comprising specialists in agriculture and digital technologies, was involved in assessing the most promising areas for implementing digital solutions. Through the use of fuzzy set theory, the expert evaluation results were processed, allowing for an objective determination of digitalization priorities. The study found that, from the perspective of digital technology application goals, the highestrated areas were crop monitoring and programming, informatization, and the creation of a digital agronomist model. The introduction of these technologies would significantly improve the management of production processes, increase yields, and ensure more rational use of resources, while minimizing losses. Ultimately, the research outlines concrete priorities for the implementation of digital technologies in crop production, which promise to provide substantial benefits to the agroindustrial sector. The findings suggest that strategically targeted digital solutions can drive productivity improvements and ensure more sustainable practices, reinforcing the importance of adopting advanced technologies in modern agriculture. This study underscores the need for careful consideration of resource allocation and expert guidance to maximize the potential of digitalization in agricultural enterprises.