Exploring the potential of blockchain-enabled lean automation in supply chain management: a systematic literature review, classification taxonomy, and future research agenda

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to evaluate how Blockchain Technology (BCT) can support the implementation of Lean Automation. We conducted a systematic literature review to understand how BCT is being implemented in the supply chain management (SCM) domain and to evaluate how this technology can be used to reduce inefficiencies in supply chains. Firstly, we developed a holistic taxonomy of wastes to identify the most common non-value activities. Then, both inductive and deductive content analyses were performed, the latter being coded using the taxonomy. Our findings identified the most common BCT-based application themes in SCM and ways that this technology can be used to support future implementation of Blockchain-enabled Lean Automation (B-eLA). Additionally, we proposed a future research agenda. The study provides important contributions at the intersection between BCT, lean production, and Industry 4.0 within the context of SCM and seeks to exploit BCT’s potential to improve businesses’ efficiency, effectiveness and productivity.