When problems requiring diagnostics present in the field, time is always a critical factor.  From identifying a threat to recommending a treatment plan, timely transfer of information from the field to lab is crucial.  Rapid diagnosis can make all the difference in successfully preserving a crop, treating a poisonous bite, or efficiently eliminating a harmful pathogen.  The Distance Diagnostics through Digital Imaging (DDDI) system utilizes sophisticated database software and the world wide web to streamline the submission and diagnosis of problems facing the agricultural community.  A customized DDDI solution can help commercial companies or universities with extension programs that are struggling with common issues such as:

  • Delay and/or deterioration of mailed samples reaching the lab
  • Excessive and time-consuming paperwork needed to share a diagnosis
  • Challenges submitting required documentation to regional or national databases
  • Storing and organizing large amounts of information from past diagnoses to emerging pests to treatment plans

No matter the challenges facing your organization, the talented team behind DDDI can design a system custom-tailored to suit your needs and optimize your performance.

Distance Diagnostics through Digital Imaging activity overview

Distance Diagnostics through Digital Imaging (DDDI) is a University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (UGA-CAES) initiative that allows both commercial and public agricultural entities or even individuals to leverage the power of the Internet to quickly diagnose damaging pathogens and pests, as well as identify potential biosecurity threats.

Distance Diagnostics through Digital Imaging (DDDI) was developed by a talented IT team in collaboration with agricultural specialists at the University of Georgia in 1997. DDDI was initially created to allow Cooperative Extension offices throughout Georgia to easily submit relevant information and images of plant diseases; the goal being to receive a rapid diagnosis from University faculty, facilitating timely, corrective action. This new method for submitting samples of unidentified pests and organisms was exceptionally efficient, resulting in significant time and cost savings. “It’s a reality that we can’t have every specialist in every corner of the state to help farmers. But [DDDI] puts together expertise and technology, and this allows us to increase our service.”, says Stephen Portch, former University of Georgia Chancellor. DDDI puts people with agricultural problems in communication with the people with solutions.

Customized DDDI systems are currently in place in numerous states, the Dominican Republic, the American Protectorates of the Pacific, and all of Central America. The system has grown to include commercial clients as well. DDDI has expanded from plant pathology and many other disciplines have found value including entomology, marine sciences, crop and soil sciences, forestry and veterinary medicine. Virtually any problem that can be captured digitally may benefit from DDDI.

How DDDI works

The DDDI system utilizes customized web forms for sample submission, enabling users to submit agricultural problems for diagnosis from virtually any place where an internet connection is available, from the commercial field to the home garden. A user simply logs into the password-protected system, completes the appropriate form, and attaches appropriate digital images as necessary. Upon submission, the system automatically sends an email notification to the proper diagnostic expert who then reviews sample information, and associated images, and tenders a diagnosis and recommendation. DDDI automatically sends an email back to the submitter with the diagnosis and recommended treatment. The system also generates printable forms for the professional presentation of sample diagnoses and information to clients.

Virtual data room solutions and DDDI system

Technology makes a huge difference right now. In addition to agricultural problems and issues, there may also be various technical requests for secure data exchange. The atmosphere is evolving rapidly and requires comprehensive solutions for its users.

A virtual data room is a software solution that allows companies to store and share sensitive information.

Benefits of using virtual data room solutions:

– Secured storage of confidential information

– Improved collaboration

– Document management

Just like the DDDI system data room allows users to store and share documents, contacts, research results, and so on. Virtual data rooms are a great solution for any business that needs to share information with clients or other people in the company. They provide secure storage and easy access to all types of files including video, documents, images, and more.

Some of the most common use cases for this type of software include:

– Providing an easy way to share information with business partners, investors, or customers;

– Creating an accurate inventory of all your assets;

– Protecting intellectual property rights by storing them in a secure environment.

Other useful DDDI features

DDDI is completely scalable and can be customized to meet virtually any diagnostic need including local, regional, and national communication. The system can be set to pre-populate or auto-fill sections of the forms while still allowing for editing when needed. By utilizing a DDDI system, time savings can be significant. The entire process, from taking the image with a digital camera to submitter notification of the diagnosis and recommendation, can take place in less than 5 minutes.

DDDI bridges the gap between people with an agricultural problems and experts with solutions. DDDI not only ensures timely, seamless communication between the two, but it also maintains an archive of all communication used in the system for documentation purposes. All sample submission information, along with digital images, client contact information, date of diagnosis, etc. is captured and maintained inside the DDDI system for as long as the system exists. Some DDDI users utilize this archive as an educational tool, searching for and reviewing previous sample submissions that may be relevant to their current situation. This community of knowledge can be extended to all authorized users of the DDDI system or can be strictly regulated so that only the sample submitter and diagnostician may review sample information.