Optimization and Pilot Testing of the Mechanization Resource Mapping, Monitoring, and Data Analysis System (M3DAS) for Mechanization Planning, Implementation, and Policy Data Generation for Government Department and LGUs

(July 1, 2020 to March 31, 2022)

Funding Agency: Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD), Department of Science and Technology (DOST) 

Implementing Agency: Center for Agri-Fisheries and Biosystems Mechanization (BIOMECH)

Personnel:

Engr. Alexis C. del Rosario – Project Leader

Engr. Jose D. de Ramos – Study Leader

Engr. Marife R. Santiago – Study Leader

Engr. Mary Grace R. Pagatpatan – University Research Associate II

Engr. Kristina Kay R. Relleve – University Research Associate II

Engr. Conrad Ian S. Tan – University Research Associate II

Evan Rex L. Reblora – University Research Associate II

Ms. Jessica R. Cullat – Clerk II

Brief Background and Rationale

The M3DAS system is composed of a paperless app, database and an analysis system using GIS. The system was developed to address the need to augment the planning, implementation, monitoring and data analysis in the management of mechanization programs. The initial prototype was developed using ODK as a survey app but was found to have many limitations, thus this project was proposed to address such gaps and further pilot test the system. This project aimed to pilot test and optimize the system beginning with the survey app and the database. Two pilot areas were selected, Batangas and Panay, with sugarcane as the target crop. An open-source android-based system was used to develop and optimize the survey app while the database utilized XAMPP database configuration application. Results of the pilot test so far have shown improvement in the app in terms of ease of use, better functionality, and synching with the database. Analysis of data utilized QGIS an open-source application to produce various thematic maps that could aid in mechanization management. Among the maps produced were production level, elevation of the pilot areas, slope, machine density, available power, simple hp/ha, segregation of privately owned and custom hired machines, and required machines in particular areas. The maps will be useful in ascertaining the mechanization situation in a particular area and allow more focused and well targeted interventions. The pilot test will be completed by September where another mill district in Batangas and two (2) in Panay will be surveyed. A training manual will also be completed to allow use of the system for interested agencies. SRA partnered with BIOMECH in the implementation of the project.

Objectives of the project

The general objective of the project is to optimize, and pilot test the Mechanization Resource Mapping, Monitoring and Data Analysis System (M3DAS) for better functionality and ease of use. Specifically, the project aims to:

1. Optimize the data capture, data transmission, database and analysis system into a seamless suite of applications;
2. Pilot test the system in one province and one crop to capture municipal data and consolidate into provincial data;
3. Develop operational and deployment guidelines for would be users; and
4. Develop a training program and manual for utilization and maintenance of the system.