Improving social sustainability and reducing supply chain risks through blockchain implementation: role of outcome and behavioural mechanisms

Atanu Chaudhuri, Manjot Singh Bhatia, Yasanur Kayikci, Kiran J. Fernandes, Samuel Fosso-Wamba

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    60 Citations (Scopus)
    356 Downloads (Pure)

    Abstract

    The implementation of blockchain technology holds promise for improving social sustainability and minimising risks across the supply chain. A theory-driven analysis of how blockchain implementation affects social sustainability and minimises risks (outcomes) is missing in supply chain management literature. In particular, the role of technology service providers in meeting these outcomes is unknown. This research addresses these gaps by identifying the outcome-based and behavioural mechanisms needed to generate social sustainability and reduce risks through blockchain projects using agency theory as a theoretical lens. We conduct in-depth interviews with key stakeholders for four blockchain implementation projects to answer these questions. We identify that developing user-friendly applications, developing secure digital payment systems, providing support for suppliers and farmers and adapting to local conditions as the key outcome-based mechanisms. Educating and engaging with customers and building local relationships are found to be the key behavioural mechanisms needed to improve social sustainability and minimise risks using blockchain. Finally, we compare the cases and develop propositions.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)401-433
    Number of pages33
    JournalAnnals of Operations Research
    Volume327
    Issue number1
    Early online date26 Oct 2021
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - Aug 2023

    Bibliographical note

    The final publication is available at Springer via http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10479-021-04307-6

    Copyright © and Moral Rights are retained by the author(s) and/ or other copyright owners. A copy can be downloaded for personal non-commercial research or study, without prior permission or charge. This item cannot be reproduced or quoted extensively from without first obtaining permission in writing from the copyright holder(s). The content must not be changed in any way or sold commercially in any format or medium without the formal permission of the copyright holders.

    Keywords

    • Agency theory
    • Blockchain
    • Outcome and behavioural mechanisms
    • Risk management
    • Social sustainability

    ASJC Scopus subject areas

    • General Decision Sciences
    • Management Science and Operations Research

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