improving supply chain performance using blockchain-enabled smart contract: a discrete- event -simulation

Purpose: the lack of information systems, use of manual correspondence, as well as lack of proper transparency and traceability of information throughout the computer supply chain in isfahan’s education schools, have created challenges for the organization that have reduced efficiency and supply chain responsiveness. this study tries to investigate the effects of implementing blockchain technology on a supply chain through which computer parts are provided for education & development organizations in isfahan, iran.design/methodology/approach: in this study, through a discrete-event simulation of smart contracts based on the ethereum network, the effects of this technology on the performance of the mentioned supply chain are investigated. first, by examining the current structure of the supply chain, members and processes, the relevant subsystems affecting supply chain performance are identified. the smart contracts corresponding to the selected subsystems are then developed using the solidity programming language for the ethereum blockchain network. finally, using discrete event simulation, two different models of supply chain process are devised, one for representing current-method and the other which is based on blockchain technology for both of which, the performance results are extracted.findings: the comparison of the results shows that blockchain technology has the capacity to have a positive effect on the supply chain performance and while increasing transparency and improving traceability, it can also improve performance indicators in terms of time and cost.practical implications: implementing blockchain not only streamlines processes but also enables a more agile response to market demands, ultimately enhancing competitiveness. furthermore, the findings underline the importance of investing in training and development for staff to navigate and utilize these new technologies effectively. managers should also consider the significant role of real-time data visibility in enhancing collaboration and efficiency in their supply chains.originality/value: due to the emerging nature of blockchain, especially its applications in the supply chain, most of the research done in this regard is theoretical and there are few practical implementations to investigate the effects of this technology on supply chain management and performance. in this study, using smart contracts within the ethereum network, showcasing a practical simulation rather than a theoretical framework, the traditional structure of the supply chain is compared with the blockchain-enabled supply chain.

improving supply chain performance using blockchain-enabled smart contract: a discrete- event -simulation

purpose: the lack of information systems, use of manual correspondence, as well as lack of proper transparency and traceability of information throughout the computer supply chain in isfahan’s education schools, have created challenges for the organization that have reduced efficiency and supply chain responsiveness. this study tries to investigate the effects of implementing blockchain technology on a supply chain through which computer parts are provided for education & development organizations in isfahan, iran.design/methodology/approach: in this study, through a discrete-event simulation of smart contracts based on the ethereum network, the effects of this technology on the performance of the mentioned supply chain are investigated. first, by examining the current structure of the supply chain, members and processes, the relevant subsystems affecting supply chain performance are identified. the smart contracts corresponding to the selected subsystems are then developed using the solidity programming language for the ethereum blockchain network. finally, using discrete event simulation, two different models of supply chain process are devised, one for representing current-method and the other which is based on blockchain technology for both of which, the performance results are extracted.findings: the comparison of the results shows that blockchain technology has the capacity to have a positive effect on the supply chain performance and while increasing transparency and improving traceability, it can also improve performance indicators in terms of time and cost.practical implications: implementing blockchain not only streamlines processes but also enables a more agile response to market demands, ultimately enhancing competitiveness. furthermore, the findings underline the importance of investing in training and development for staff to navigate and utilize these new technologies effectively. managers should also consider the significant role of real-time data visibility in enhancing collaboration and efficiency in their supply chains.originality/value: due to the emerging nature of blockchain, especially its applications in the supply chain, most of the research done in this regard is theoretical and there are few practical implementations to investigate the effects of this technology on supply chain management and performance. in this study, using smart contracts within the ethereum network, showcasing a practical simulation rather than a theoretical framework, the traditional structure of the supply chain is compared with the blockchain-enabled supply chain.