Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Blockchain technology has emerged as a transformative tool with the potential to revolutionize various industries, including supply chain management. This thesis explores the implementation of blockchain technology in the context of supply chain management, focusing specifically on its application in purchasing and inventory control. The primary objective of this research is to investigate how blockchain technology can enhance the efficiency, transparency, and security of supply chain processes, with a case study approach to analyze its impact on purchasing and inventory management. The study begins with an introduction to blockchain technology and its relevance to supply chain management, highlighting the growing interest in leveraging blockchain for improving supply chain operations. A comprehensive literature review is conducted to explore existing knowledge on blockchain technology, supply chain management, purchasing, and inventory control, identifying key trends, challenges, and opportunities in the field. Methodologies employed in this research include qualitative data collection methods such as interviews, surveys, and case studies to gather insights from industry professionals, supply chain experts, and organizations utilizing blockchain technology in their operations. The research methodology section outlines the research design, data collection procedures, sampling techniques, and data analysis methods utilized in this study. The findings of this research reveal the benefits of implementing blockchain technology in supply chain management, particularly in enhancing traceability, transparency, and trust among supply chain partners. The case study analysis provides real-world examples of how blockchain technology has been successfully integrated into purchasing and inventory control processes, leading to improved efficiency, reduced costs, and minimized risks. The discussion of findings delves into the implications of the research results, highlighting the significance of blockchain technology in transforming traditional supply chain practices. The study concludes with a summary of key findings, implications for practice, recommendations for future research, and the overall contribution of this research to the field of supply chain management. Overall, this thesis contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the application of blockchain technology in supply chain management, offering valuable insights into the potential benefits and challenges of adopting blockchain solutions in purchasing and inventory control processes. The findings of this research can inform practitioners, policymakers, and researchers on the opportunities for leveraging blockchain technology to optimize supply chain operations and drive innovation in the field of supply chain management.

Thesis Overview

The research project titled "Implementation of Blockchain Technology in Supply Chain Management: A Case Study of Purchasing and Inventory Control" aims to explore the integration of blockchain technology in enhancing supply chain management processes, specifically focusing on purchasing and inventory control. The utilization of blockchain technology has gained significant attention in recent years due to its potential to revolutionize traditional supply chain operations by offering transparency, security, and efficiency. The overarching objective of this research is to investigate how blockchain technology can be effectively implemented to streamline purchasing activities and improve inventory control within supply chain management. Through a detailed case study analysis, this research seeks to identify the key benefits, challenges, and opportunities associated with integrating blockchain technology in the context of purchasing and inventory management. The research will begin with a comprehensive literature review that examines existing studies, theories, and frameworks related to blockchain technology, supply chain management, purchasing processes, and inventory control. This review will provide a theoretical foundation for understanding the potential impact of blockchain technology on supply chain operations and help identify gaps in current research that this study aims to address. Following the literature review, the research methodology will be outlined, detailing the research design, data collection methods, sample selection criteria, and data analysis techniques. A mixed-method approach will be employed to gather both qualitative and quantitative data, including interviews with supply chain professionals, surveys, and case studies. The empirical investigation will involve conducting a detailed case study analysis of a specific organization or industry to evaluate the practical implications of implementing blockchain technology in purchasing and inventory control. The case study will involve assessing the current supply chain processes, identifying pain points and inefficiencies, and proposing blockchain-based solutions to address these challenges. The findings of the research will be presented and discussed in Chapter Four, highlighting the key insights, implications, and recommendations derived from the case study analysis. The discussion will explore the potential benefits of blockchain technology in enhancing transparency, traceability, and accountability in purchasing and inventory management, as well as the challenges and limitations that organizations may face in adopting blockchain solutions. Finally, Chapter Five will provide a comprehensive conclusion and summary of the research findings, outlining the practical implications and recommendations for practitioners, policymakers, and academics interested in leveraging blockchain technology to improve supply chain management practices. The research aims to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on blockchain applications in supply chain management and provide valuable insights for organizations seeking to enhance their purchasing and inventory control processes through technological innovation.