Application of Complexity Theory and Agricultural Innovation System Approaches to Evaluate Performance of the New Agricultural Extension System: The Case of Iran

A well-designed Agricultural Extension System (AES) can facilitate transitions towards sustainable agriculture. However, in most developing countries, AES has failed to promote sustainable agricultural development. The New Agricultural Extension System (NAES) was initiated to facilitate agricultural development in Iran. However, there is still no definite reflection on the influences of NAES on agricultural development. Therefore, this research aimed to evaluate the performance of NAES. To ensure an integrative and holistic analysis of the NAES’s performance, the Complexity Theory (CT) and Agricultural Innovation System (AIS) approaches were used. To gather data, survey research was conducted in Fars Province, southern Iran. A multi-stage random sampling was used to identify the designated extension agents. The findings indicated that effective implementation of the NAES needs facilitated interaction through network mediation ( X = 71.6), creation of an enabling context for the delivery of extension services ( X = 66.6), improved communication and marketing infrastructures ( X = 72), development of a value chain ( X = 71.4), acceptance of self-organization ( X = 67.8) and adoption of complexity-aware management ( X = 66). The results also identified the hindering effects of demographic, structural and psychological factors on the practical application of CT and AIS principles. Some recommendations and implications are offered to improve the effectiveness of NAES.