Transição geracional e tomada de decisão em propriedades rurais familiares

Abstract

This research aimed to identify the use of management processes in generational transitions in Family Farming Production Units (UFPAs) and their influence on decision-making. Regarding the methodological design, an applied, qualitative, exploratory study was conducted, based on theoretical-empirical research. The present study comprised a sample of 40 (forty) interviewees, 20 family farmers in the state of Pernambuco and 20 in the state of Minas Gerais. Of this total, 20 are from the dimension transferring the management of the UFPA and 20 from the dimension succeeding the management of the UFPA. Two techniques were used to define the sample: key informant sampling, where participants were selected for being experts or possessing relevant information for the study, and snowball sampling, where participants were selected based on referrals from other participants. Data collection was carried out through semi-structured interviews and ended when saturation was reached, i.e., the absence of new evidence. The analyses were grouped into two dimensions: transferring management and succeeding management at UFPA. Each dimension was then organized into four categories of analysis: Process Mapping, Factors for Decision Making, Strategies for Transition, and Challenges and Opportunities of Transition. Each category represents a specific research objective. The IRAMUTEC software was used for the analyses. Regarding the profile of the interviewees, the variety of educational levels stands out in the succeeding management dimension, which extends up to doctoral level, and all specialization, master's, and doctoral level education observed in the study is in the field of agronomy. Concerning agricultural production, it was observed that most UFPAs have diversified production to reduce business risks, as certain crops are more sensitive to rain and sun; therefore, this observed diversification is important. However, it is important to highlight the natural vocation of each state, in this case the production of mangoes and grapes in the state of Pernambuco and coffee in the state of Minas Gerais. It was observed that this generational transition process involves numerous cultural, social, customary, and traditional issues that present themselves as barriers for the successor. It was found that the generational transition process cannot be imposed; therefore, the ability to "conciliation" is necessary, as it involves different generations with different experiences and backgrounds, where conflict is inevitable, but it is possible to resolve it with assertive communication. In short, this study reflects how complex a generational transition process is in family farming; however, when decision-making is anchored in various management processes, operational, financial, and especially human aspects (knowing how to converse and dialogue) can lead to a smooth, harmonious, profitable, and sustainable generational transition. Therefore, it can be concluded that there are numerous management processes, ranging from operational to tactical and strategic issues, with a predominance of interpersonal relationships, emotional and cultural issues, which together play a decisive role in this generational transition process.