HIAP Platform Development
Develop HIAP's digital platform and associated web-based tools for understanding problems and collaborating on solutions.
HIAP Platform Development
Purpose and Vision
The development of HIAP’s digital platform is intended to serve as a powerful tool for fostering effective collaboration, data-sharing, and collective problem-solving among the diverse stakeholders of Hawaiʻi Island’s agriculture and food system. Recognizing that successful system-wide solutions require accurate, timely data and coordinated action, the HIAP platform will provide stakeholders with user-friendly tools to visualize agricultural issues, track ongoing efforts, and engage collaboratively in shaping outcomes.
Planned Activities and Tools
The platform development will center around creating intuitive digital tools that are practical, accessible, and directly relevant to users’ needs. Initial efforts have focused on the launch of interactive maps—both market system maps and geographical maps—to clearly display who is doing what, where they’re doing it, and what challenges or opportunities exist. These maps will incorporate multiple data layers, such as market access points, infrastructure availability, and resource management indicators, enabling better-informed planning and decision-making across the agricultural value chain.
Additionally, the HIAP platform will include collaboration tools, such as forums, working-group spaces, and a document library, facilitating real-time communication and streamlined knowledge exchange. A key feature planned for future implementation includes an "Agriculture Dashboard"—a real-time analytics hub summarizing critical metrics such as production statistics, market trends, and workforce data. These resources will not only improve information flow but will also ensure transparency and greater stakeholder alignment.
Stakeholder Engagement and Value
Farmers, business owners, policymakers, researchers, extension agents, students, and even consumers will all benefit from easier access to comprehensive data and practical collaboration tools. For instance, producers can rapidly gain insights into consumer demand trends, policymakers can better visualize the geographic distribution of resources, and extension agents can disseminate research findings and technical advice broadly and efficiently.
Over time, the HIAP Platform is envisioned to evolve into a central resource that supports strategic decisions, fosters innovation, and strengthens connections among stakeholders, fundamentally enhancing the resilience, profitability, and sustainability of Hawaiʻi Island agriculture.