Journal Home Online First Current Issue Archive For Authors Journal Information 中文版

2020, Volume 7, Issue 4

Abstract

Keywords

Related Research

Back to Top

Frontiers of Engineering Management >> 2020, Volume 7, Issue 4 doi: 10.1007/s42524-020-0110-8

Preparing construction supply chains for blockchain technology: An investigation of its potential and future directions

. Department of Architecture and 3D Design, Huddersfield University, Huddersfield HD1 3DH, UK.. The Bartlett School of Construction and Project Management, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK.. Department of Construction Engineering and Lighting Science, Jönköping University, Jönköping 55111, Sweden.. Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Jönköping University, Jönköping 55111, Sweden

Received: 2020-04-09 Accepted: 2020-05-11 Available online: 2020-05-11
HTML13 PDF 20 Collect 0

Next Previous

Abstract

Blockchain, a peer-to-peer, controlled, distributed database structure, has the potential to profoundly affect current business transactions in the construction industry through smart contracts, cryptocurrencies, and reliable asset tracking. The construction industry is often criticized for being slow in embracing emerging technologies and not effectively diffusing them through its supply chains. Often, the extensive fragmentation, traditional procurement structures, destructive competition, lack of collaboration and transparency, low-profit margins, and human resources are shown as the main culprits for this. As blockchain technology makes its presence felt strongly in many other industries like finance and banking, this study investigates the preparation of construction supply chains for blockchain technology through an explorative analysis. Empirical data for the study were collected through semi-structured interviews with 17 subject experts. Alongside presenting a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats analysis (SWOT), the study exhibits the requirements for and steps toward a construction supply structure facilitated by blockchain technology.

Related Research