Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The integration of blockchain technology in supply chain management has emerged as a significant area of interest due to its potential to enhance transparency and efficiency across the supply chain. This thesis explores the impact of blockchain technology on supply chain management processes and practices, with a focus on improving transparency and efficiency within the supply chain ecosystem. The study examines existing literature on blockchain technology, supply chain management, and their intersection to identify gaps and opportunities for leveraging blockchain technology in supply chain operations. The research begins with an introduction to the concept of blockchain technology and its applications in various industries, followed by a review of the background of the study, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, and the structure of the thesis. The definitions of key terms used throughout the research are also provided to ensure clarity and understanding. Chapter two presents a comprehensive literature review that examines the role of blockchain technology in enhancing transparency and efficiency in supply chain management. The review covers key concepts such as distributed ledger technology, smart contracts, traceability, and provenance, and discusses how blockchain can address common challenges in supply chain management, such as counterfeiting, fraud, and inefficiencies. Chapter three outlines the research methodology employed in the study, including research design, data collection methods, data analysis techniques, and ethical considerations. The chapter details how data was collected from industry experts, supply chain practitioners, and academic sources to gain insights into the potential benefits and challenges of integrating blockchain technology in supply chain management. Chapter four presents a detailed discussion of the findings, highlighting the key implications of integrating blockchain technology in supply chain management. The chapter explores the opportunities for improving transparency, traceability, and efficiency in supply chain operations through blockchain technology, as well as the challenges and limitations that may arise during implementation. Finally, chapter five provides a conclusion and summary of the thesis, drawing key insights from the research findings and discussing the implications for practice and future research. The thesis concludes with recommendations for supply chain stakeholders on how to leverage blockchain technology to enhance transparency and efficiency in their operations. Overall, this research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on blockchain technology in supply chain management and provides valuable insights for practitioners, policymakers, and researchers seeking to optimize supply chain processes through the adoption of blockchain technology.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Integration of blockchain technology in supply chain management for improved transparency and efficiency" aims to investigate the potential benefits and challenges associated with integrating blockchain technology into supply chain management processes. Blockchain technology, known for its decentralized and secure nature, has gained significant attention across various industries, including supply chain management, due to its ability to enhance transparency, traceability, and efficiency. The research will begin with a comprehensive review of relevant literature to establish a solid theoretical foundation. This literature review will explore existing studies, frameworks, and best practices related to blockchain technology and its applications in supply chain management. By analyzing the current state of research, the project will identify gaps and opportunities for further exploration. Subsequently, the research methodology will be outlined, detailing the approach and methods employed to achieve the research objectives. This will include data collection techniques, data analysis methods, and any tools or software utilized in the research process. The methodology will be designed to ensure the reliability and validity of the findings, providing a robust basis for the research outcomes. The core of the project will focus on the empirical investigation of how blockchain technology can be effectively integrated into supply chain management processes to enhance transparency and efficiency. Through case studies, interviews, surveys, or simulations, the research will evaluate the impact of blockchain implementation on various aspects of supply chain operations, such as inventory management, logistics, and traceability. The findings from the empirical analysis will be rigorously discussed in Chapter Four, highlighting the key insights, challenges, and implications of integrating blockchain technology in supply chain management. The discussion will delve into the practical implications of the findings, providing actionable recommendations for industry practitioners, policymakers, and researchers interested in adopting blockchain solutions in supply chain operations. Finally, Chapter Five will present a comprehensive conclusion and summary of the research outcomes. This section will synthesize the key findings, contributions, and limitations of the study, offering insights into the future directions for research and practical implications for implementing blockchain technology in supply chain management. Overall, this research project seeks to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on blockchain technology in supply chain management, shedding light on the opportunities and challenges associated with leveraging blockchain for improved transparency and efficiency in supply chain operations.