AgriConnect: A Mobile Application Linking Farmers and Businesses in Western Pangasinan

This study focused on the development of AgriConnect, a mobile application designed to connect farmers directly with businesses in Western Pangasinan. The application was developed to address common challenges faced by farmers, including limited market access, dependence on middlemen, lack of direct communication with buyers, and reduced income opportunities. These issues often result in lower profit margins, inefficient transactions, and difficulties in establishing reliable market connections. The study aimed to provide a digital solution that would improve agricultural trading processes and strengthen relationships between farmers and businesses.

A descriptive–developmental research approach was utilized in the study. Data were gathered through survey questionnaires and interviews conducted with farmers, business owners, and representatives from local agricultural offices to identify existing trading practices, challenges, and essential system requirements. The Agile methodology was employed in the development process, allowing iterative improvements and continuous refinement of the application based on user feedback and evaluation. The system was developed using modern mobile application technologies and integrated features designed to support efficient agricultural transactions.

AgriConnect includes functionalities such as secure user authentication, product listings, direct messaging, notifications, transaction history, sales computation, and performance analytics. These features enable users to communicate effectively, manage transactions efficiently, maintain organized records, and monitor trading activities through a centralized platform. The application also provides farmers with greater product visibility and direct access to potential buyers, reducing reliance on intermediaries.

The study concludes that AgriConnect effectively addresses key problems in the existing agricultural trading system by providing a transparent, accessible, and reliable digital platform. The evaluation results indicated that the application is usable, acceptable, and beneficial for both farmers and businesses. The findings suggest that AgriConnect has the potential to improve communication, transaction management, market accessibility, and overall agricultural trading efficiency in Western Pangasinan.