Investigating barriers to blockchain adoption in construction supply chain management: A fuzzy-based MCDM approach

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the barriers to the adoption of Blockchain Technology (BT) within the field of Construction Supply Chain Management (CSCM) by unravelling their interrelationships. In doing so, a Pythagorean fuzzy-set-based DEMATEL method to assess these barriers in a complex environment is proposed. The results of the study suggest that “market-based risks”, “high costs for maintaining sustainability”, and “usage in the underground economy” are the most influential barriers to the adoption of BT in CSCM. Furthermore, the study identifies that “inadequate knowledge/employee training”, “contractual risk”, and “scalability issues” play a pivotal role within the CSCM system. The reliability and validation of the obtained results were also shown using sensitivity analysis and the focus-group-discussion approach. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for stakeholders in the construction industry to design and implement effective measures to overcome the identified barriers to the adoption of BT in CSCM. By addressing these barriers, stakeholders can facilitate the adoption of BT, leading to more efficient and effective construction supply chain management practices.