In this area of research, we explore the performance of farms within a given context and the activity systems of households. In both developing and industrialized countries, agricultural activities – regardless of whether they are of primary or secondary importance – are often carried out alongside other activities that allow households to meet their various goals.

It is thus useful to examine agricultural activities from two angles. Firstly, a farm should be viewed as part of a larger system of activities and revenue creation. This involves avoiding prior assumptions about the role that agricultural activities play in a household’s system.  Secondly, it is important to examine the activities carried out by all household members and not only those of the farmer.      

This approach allows for a better understanding of the technical and economic choices that farmers make.