The Next Frontier in Cropping Systems Research Analysis: Moving Beyond ANOVA.

Cropping systems studies have contributed to our understanding of how management systems influence agroecosystem productivity and environmental impacts. However, results from systems-based studies have primarily been evaluated using statistical approaches that separately analyze management effects on individual functions. A broad suite of analytical approaches is needed to understand the complex interactions that influence cropping system outcomes, particularly in light of the increasing need for multifunctional cropping systems that are productive and maintain environmental quality increases. A review of multivariate approaches applied to cropping systems studies will be presented, including potential approaches that agricultural research can adapt from other social and biophysical science fields. The strengths and limitations of different approaches will be discussed. The integration of field-scale studies with modeling will be highlighted as an opportunity to evaluate variables that change on different temporal scales.