Potential of blockchain in supply chains: Case of transportation companies
Csatári-Sárkány, Anna (2021)
Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2021052712026
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2021052712026
Tiivistelmä
This research-oriented thesis investigated potential applications of blockchain technology in the transportation industry. At first, it explored the capabilities of blockchain technology in international supply chains through reviewing the latest theory in the field. Qualitative cross-case analysis was utilized to test theory against cases of three different transportation companies: a fuel importer, an express road carrier and a freight forwarder. Data collected through semi-structured interviews revealed the challenges of the case companies, identified their current responses to those and potential improvement directions.
Based on the interview data the research focused on identifying strong use cases for block-chain implementation and potential obstacles hindering it. The analysis pointed out that the studied cases in general reflected what was discussed in the literature. However, some exceptions were recognized regarding trust issues, attitude to Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), coopetition and the perception of the business environment. The validity of the identified use cases was verified through a decision tree released by the World Economic Forum for determining the suitability of blockchain technology for a case.
As a result of the evaluation, case companies – due to different circumstances – were advised to take a waiting position regarding blockchain implementation. The research revealed that case companies were not sharing the enthusiasm and optimism typical of the literature. The report was concluded by listing limitations and directions for further research.
Based on the interview data the research focused on identifying strong use cases for block-chain implementation and potential obstacles hindering it. The analysis pointed out that the studied cases in general reflected what was discussed in the literature. However, some exceptions were recognized regarding trust issues, attitude to Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), coopetition and the perception of the business environment. The validity of the identified use cases was verified through a decision tree released by the World Economic Forum for determining the suitability of blockchain technology for a case.
As a result of the evaluation, case companies – due to different circumstances – were advised to take a waiting position regarding blockchain implementation. The research revealed that case companies were not sharing the enthusiasm and optimism typical of the literature. The report was concluded by listing limitations and directions for further research.