Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Blockchain technology has emerged as a transformative tool in various industries, promising increased transparency, security, and efficiency. This thesis investigates the application of blockchain in supply chain management, focusing on purchasing and inventory control processes. The study presents a case study approach to analyze the benefits and challenges of integrating blockchain technology into a real-world supply chain setting. The research begins with a comprehensive introduction to the topic, providing background information on blockchain technology and its potential impact on supply chain management. The problem statement highlights the existing gaps in traditional supply chain practices and the need for innovative solutions to enhance efficiency and traceability. The objectives of the study are outlined to guide the research process towards addressing these identified issues. The limitations and scope of the study are discussed to provide a clear understanding of the boundaries and constraints within which the research operates. The significance of the study is emphasized, illustrating the potential contributions of this research to the field of purchasing and supply chain management. The structure of the thesis is outlined to guide the reader through the chapters and sections that follow, ensuring a coherent flow of information. Chapter two presents a detailed literature review, exploring existing research on blockchain technology in supply chain management. Ten key themes are identified and analyzed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current state of knowledge in this area. Chapter three outlines the research methodology, including research design, data collection methods, sampling techniques, and data analysis procedures. The findings of the study are discussed in chapter four, presenting an in-depth analysis of the case study results and their implications for supply chain management practices. The discussion covers various aspects of purchasing and inventory control, highlighting the benefits and challenges of implementing blockchain technology in these areas. Finally, chapter five presents the conclusion and summary of the thesis, summarizing the key findings, implications, and recommendations for future research and practice. The study concludes by highlighting the potential of blockchain technology to revolutionize supply chain management processes, providing a roadmap for organizations looking to leverage this technology for improved efficiency and transparency in their operations. Overall, this thesis contributes to the growing body of knowledge on blockchain technology in supply chain management, offering valuable insights and practical recommendations for industry practitioners, researchers, and policymakers.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Blockchain Technology in Supply Chain Management: A Case Study in Purchasing and Inventory Control" aims to explore the application of blockchain technology in enhancing efficiency and transparency within the supply chain, specifically focusing on purchasing and inventory control processes. Supply chain management is crucial for organizations to ensure the seamless flow of goods and services from suppliers to consumers. However, traditional supply chain systems often face challenges such as lack of transparency, data inaccuracies, and delays in information sharing. Blockchain technology offers a promising solution to address these challenges by providing a decentralized, secure, and immutable platform for recording transactions and sharing data across the supply chain network. The research will begin with a comprehensive literature review to examine the existing knowledge and research on blockchain technology in supply chain management. This review will cover topics such as the benefits of blockchain in supply chain operations, successful case studies, and potential challenges and limitations associated with its implementation. The methodology chapter will outline the research approach, data collection methods, and tools used to conduct the case study on purchasing and inventory control processes. This will involve gathering data from a selected organization that has integrated blockchain technology into its supply chain operations. The research will analyze how blockchain has impacted the efficiency, transparency, and overall performance of the purchasing and inventory control functions within the organization. The findings chapter will present a detailed analysis of the case study results, highlighting the key outcomes, challenges faced, and lessons learned from implementing blockchain technology in the supply chain. This section will provide valuable insights into the practical implications of using blockchain technology in enhancing purchasing and inventory control processes. Finally, the conclusion and summary chapter will summarize the key findings of the research and discuss the implications for both theory and practice. Recommendations will be provided for organizations looking to adopt blockchain technology in their supply chain management processes, and suggestions for future research directions will be outlined. Overall, this research project seeks to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on the application of blockchain technology in supply chain management, with a specific focus on purchasing and inventory control. By exploring real-world case studies and practical implications, this study aims to provide valuable insights for organizations seeking to leverage blockchain technology to improve their supply chain operations.