Using state of the art technology

Since 2000, the Guatemalan National Coffee Association (Anacafé) has embarked on an ambitious program to develop its Geographic Information System (GIS).

GIS is an integrated system consisting of specialized hardware, software and people trained for capturing, storing, analyzing, managing, manipulating and sharing data which is geographically referenced.  The result is a growing scientific database that provides key information to be delivered to buyers and farmers in an immediate and direct way.

Technicians, cell phone and GPS (Global Positioning System) equipment strapped to the hip, are traveling the countryside; taking readings from the largest estates to cooperatives and small family plots. Besides GPS location of the farm, specialists register growing altitude, coffee types, varieties, temperature, production volume and other important attributes.

This data is being combined with high-definition photography and cartographic information in two and three dimensions.  Integrated database is shared through printed material, like the Coffee Atlas 2007/2008, and, in digital format, though open-service applications, which are widely known, easy to use and regularly have no cost.  This last service is to be provided using our Coffee Search System (under development).

The goal of this project is to promote and provide traceability and commercial transparency; allowing buyers to trace coffee back to its origin and assuring that their premium prices are received by the farmers. To date, 95% of cooperatives have been identified, as well as approximately 20% of farms.