Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis explores the application of blockchain technology in supply chain management to enhance transparency and efficiency in the purchasing process. The research investigates how blockchain can revolutionize traditional supply chain practices by providing a decentralized and secure platform for recording transactions and tracking goods from their origin to the final destination. The study begins with an introduction to the significance of blockchain in the context of supply chain management and the need for improved transparency and efficiency in purchasing activities. The background of the study delves into the evolution of supply chain management and the challenges faced by organizations in ensuring transparency and efficiency in their procurement processes. The problem statement identifies the gaps in current supply chain practices and highlights the potential of blockchain technology to address these issues. The objectives of the study are outlined to guide the research towards achieving a comprehensive understanding of how blockchain can be leveraged to enhance transparency and efficiency in purchasing. The study acknowledges the limitations that may impact the research findings, such as the complexity of implementing blockchain technology and the resistance to change within organizations. The scope of the study is defined to focus on the application of blockchain in supply chain management, specifically in the context of purchasing activities. The significance of the study lies in its potential to provide valuable insights for businesses seeking to streamline their procurement processes and improve overall supply chain efficiency. The structure of the thesis is outlined, detailing the organization of chapters and the flow of research content. Definitions of key terms related to blockchain, supply chain management, transparency, and efficiency are provided to ensure clarity and consistency in the study. Chapter Two presents a comprehensive literature review that examines previous studies and research findings related to blockchain technology, supply chain management, transparency, and efficiency in purchasing. The review highlights the benefits of blockchain in enhancing supply chain visibility, reducing fraud, and improving transactional efficiency. Chapter Three outlines the research methodology employed in the study, including the research design, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques. The chapter details the process of data collection through interviews, surveys, and case studies to gather insights from industry experts and practitioners. Chapter Four presents the findings of the research, analyzing the impact of blockchain technology on supply chain transparency and efficiency in purchasing. The chapter discusses how blockchain can streamline procurement processes, enhance trust among supply chain partners, and improve overall operational performance. Chapter Five concludes the thesis by summarizing the key findings, discussing implications for practice, and suggesting recommendations for future research. The study highlights the potential of blockchain technology to transform supply chain management practices and drive greater transparency and efficiency in purchasing activities.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Application of Blockchain Technology in Supply Chain Management for Improved Transparency and Efficiency in Purchasing" aims to explore the potential benefits and challenges of integrating blockchain technology into supply chain management processes with a focus on enhancing transparency and efficiency in purchasing activities. Blockchain technology, known for its secure, transparent, and decentralized nature, has gained significant attention across various industries, including supply chain management. This research seeks to investigate how blockchain can address key issues such as lack of transparency, inefficiencies, and data inaccuracies in traditional supply chain systems, particularly in the purchasing function. The research will begin by providing an in-depth introduction to the concept of blockchain technology and its relevance to supply chain management. It will delve into the background of the study, discussing the current challenges and limitations faced by supply chain professionals in ensuring transparency and efficiency in purchasing processes. The project will identify the specific problems within the purchasing function that blockchain technology can address, emphasizing the importance of enhancing trust, traceability, and accountability in supply chain operations. Furthermore, the research objectives will be clearly outlined, detailing the goals and expected outcomes of the study. The limitations and scope of the research will be defined to provide a clear understanding of the boundaries and constraints within which the study will operate. The significance of the study will be highlighted, emphasizing the potential impact of implementing blockchain technology in improving purchasing processes and overall supply chain performance. The project will also present the structure of the thesis, outlining the chapters and key components that will guide the research process. Additionally, a comprehensive definition of terms will be provided to clarify any technical or specialized terminology used throughout the study. Through an extensive literature review, the research will explore existing studies, frameworks, and best practices related to blockchain technology and its application in supply chain management. The literature review will cover a range of topics, including the benefits of blockchain in enhancing transparency, the challenges of implementation, and successful case studies from various industries. The research methodology section will detail the approach and techniques used to gather, analyze, and interpret data for the study. This section will include information on data collection methods, research design, sampling techniques, and data analysis procedures. The research will employ both qualitative and quantitative research methods to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the impact of blockchain technology on transparency and efficiency in purchasing. The discussion of findings chapter will present the results of the study, analyzing the data collected and drawing conclusions based on the research objectives. The findings will be critically evaluated to identify key insights, trends, and implications for supply chain professionals looking to leverage blockchain technology in their purchasing processes. Finally, the conclusion and summary chapter will synthesize the key findings of the research, reiterating the significance of the study and its contributions to the field of supply chain management. Recommendations for future research and practical implications for industry professionals will be provided to guide further exploration and implementation of blockchain technology in enhancing transparency and efficiency in purchasing within supply chains.