Diffusion of innovation theory is defined as the means by which a new idea is spread and adopted by people (Hayden, 2009). The theory was first used in the 1950s to understand how Iowa farmers adopted the use of hybrid corn seeds (Hayden, 2009, p. 93). It took the Iowa Farmers Society an average of 7 years to switch to hybrid corn, although hybrid seeds increased yields and produced tougher, drought-tolerant corn (Hayden, 2009). The timing of adoption shows positive improvements in farming but does not guarantee an immediate change in agricultural procedure. The four constructs of diffusion of innovation; Innovation, communication channels, time and social system help explain the slow adaptation of farmers to the change in the use of the new hybrid corn innovation. Diffusion of innovation constructs Innovation is something new. When an idea is new and unfamiliar, product adoption may take longer. There are 5 steps in the innovation process to make a decision. The first step is Product Knowledge. The second step is Persuasion. The novelty of hybrid corn seeds may convince some farmers to try the product, but how the product is presented to the farmer may have a greater influence. Knowing that the product exists is not enough to change one's behavior in adopting a new product. Communication channels concern how information about hybrid seeds is made known to farmers. Knowledge obtained from mass communication channels such as newspapers, television or word of mouth from other farmers, helps farmers form their perception or attitude towards adopting a new idea. The information collected from farmers will compare the overall benefits of adopting a new product. In the process of persuasion farmers ca...... middle of paper ......from due to the higher yield of corn production, drought resistant properties, without changes farmers may lose profitability; they may change as a result. Laggards - Glanz (2008, p 98), Laggards are considered more conservative and traditional and are risk averse. Farmers considered laggards would be the last to adopt hybrid seeds, due to mistrust of the product and a social disconnection from the environment of other farmers. Without the innovation diffusion process, the adaptation decision of hybrid corn may not be possible. so well understood. The way information is communicated, the time it takes to make the decision, and the structure of the social system greatly influence the speed of adoption. Diffusion of innovation/decision making demonstrates why long delay forced Iowa farmers to adopt hybrid seeds.