Scale of operation, allocative inefficiencies and separability of inputs and outputs in agricultural research.

In this article we consider some properties of concern for research production at Embrapa. We apply statistical tests to address questions related to the scale of operation, the presence of allocative inefficiencies and separability of inputs and outputs. The production process is assessed by nonparametric methods with the use of Data Envelopment Analysis. The period under analysis is 2002-2009. We conclude that Embrapa’s technology frontier shows variable returns to scale, is allocative efficient in general and is separable in inputs and outputs. These characteristics justify the company policy of adopting a VRS solution and the aggregation of output variables. Scale inefficiencies are the basis for further input congestion studies.

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: SOUZA, G. da S. e, GOMES, E. G.
Other Authors: GERALDO DA SILVA E SOUZA, SGE; ELIANE GONCALVES GOMES, SGE.
Format: Anais e Proceedings de eventos biblioteca
Language:English
eng
Published: 2014-02-20
Subjects:DEA, Eficiency., agricultural research.,
Online Access:http://www.alice.cnptia.embrapa.br/alice/handle/doc/980754
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:In this article we consider some properties of concern for research production at Embrapa. We apply statistical tests to address questions related to the scale of operation, the presence of allocative inefficiencies and separability of inputs and outputs. The production process is assessed by nonparametric methods with the use of Data Envelopment Analysis. The period under analysis is 2002-2009. We conclude that Embrapa’s technology frontier shows variable returns to scale, is allocative efficient in general and is separable in inputs and outputs. These characteristics justify the company policy of adopting a VRS solution and the aggregation of output variables. Scale inefficiencies are the basis for further input congestion studies.