Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Blockchain technology has gained significant attention in recent years due to its potential to revolutionize various industries, including supply chain management. This thesis explores the utilization of blockchain technology for supply chain management in small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The research aims to investigate how blockchain can enhance transparency, security, and efficiency in the supply chain processes of SMEs. The study begins with an introduction to the topic, providing a background of blockchain technology and its applications in supply chain management. The problem statement highlights the challenges faced by SMEs in managing their supply chains and the potential benefits that blockchain technology can offer. The research objectives are outlined to guide the study towards achieving specific goals, such as improving supply chain visibility and reducing operational costs for SMEs. Limitations and scope of the study are identified to set boundaries on the research focus and ensure the findings are relevant and applicable within the defined context of SMEs. The significance of the study is discussed to emphasize the potential impact of implementing blockchain technology in improving supply chain operations for SMEs. The literature review delves into existing research on blockchain technology and supply chain management, exploring key concepts such as transparency, traceability, and decentralization. The review highlights the advantages and challenges of implementing blockchain in supply chain management and identifies gaps in the current literature that this study aims to address. The research methodology section details the approach taken to investigate the research questions, including data collection methods, sampling techniques, and data analysis procedures. The chapter discusses the research design, participants, data sources, and data analysis techniques employed to gather and interpret the research findings. The findings of the study are presented in detail, highlighting the benefits of utilizing blockchain technology in enhancing supply chain management for SMEs. The discussion chapter analyzes the results, compares them with existing literature, and provides insights into the practical implications of the findings for SMEs. The conclusion summarizes the key findings of the study and offers recommendations for future research and practical applications of blockchain technology in supply chain management for SMEs. Overall, this thesis contributes to the growing body of knowledge on blockchain technology and its potential to transform supply chain operations for small and medium enterprises. Keywords Blockchain technology, Supply chain management, Small and medium enterprises, Transparency, Efficiency, Security, Decentralization.

Thesis Overview

Research Overview: The project titled "Utilizing Blockchain Technology for Supply Chain Management in Small and Medium Enterprises" aims to investigate the potential applications and benefits of blockchain technology in enhancing supply chain management practices within small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This research is motivated by the growing interest in blockchain technology and its ability to revolutionize traditional supply chain processes by providing transparency, security, and efficiency. The study will begin with a comprehensive literature review to examine existing research on blockchain technology, supply chain management, and their intersection within the context of SMEs. This review will help establish a theoretical framework and identify gaps in current knowledge that the research seeks to address. Subsequently, the research methodology will be outlined, detailing the approach, data collection methods, and analysis techniques to be employed. The study will utilize a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods, including interviews, surveys, and case studies, to gather data from SMEs actively involved in supply chain management. The findings from the research will be presented in Chapter Four, which will provide an in-depth analysis of how blockchain technology can be implemented in SME supply chains. The discussion will explore the key benefits and challenges associated with adopting blockchain technology, as well as practical recommendations for SMEs looking to leverage this technology to optimize their supply chain processes. In conclusion, the study will summarize its key findings and contributions to the field of supply chain management, highlighting the potential impact of blockchain technology on improving transparency, traceability, and efficiency in SME supply chains. The research aims to provide valuable insights for SME owners, managers, and policymakers seeking to harness the benefits of blockchain technology in enhancing their supply chain operations.