ABSTRACT

This chapter explores the basics of blockchain technology, its attributes and public, private and hybrid blockchain. It examines the uses and benefits of blockchain in supply chain and logistics context. The chapter presents an integration of blockchain technology with other emerging technologies. It discusses strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis for blockchain technology and adoption strategies in the supply chain. The chapter provides future directions of this technology in the supply chain and logistics industry. Blockchain uses smart contract in order to obtain blockchain benefits for process executions, where a business process can be encoded into smart contract transactions. The SWOT analysis shows that blockchain technology may be a good solution for some supply chains, but is not yet ready for mass acceptance. Blockchain technology can support consumers to prevent fraud and counterfeiting and reduce waste and losses as well as companies to operate efficiently, cut costs and reduce environmental impact throughout the supply chain.