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1,173 results ¡ page 7 of 49
Xingfen Liu, Zhongbao Zhou, Feimin Zhong, Minhui Hu
No abstract is available for this record.
Xiufeng Li, Shaojun Ma, Zhen Zhang
Purpose The Internet of Things (IoT) platform empowers the digital transformation of the manufacturing industry by providing information technology services. Simultaneously, it enters the market by offering smart products to consumers. In light of different service fee scenarios, this article explores the optimal decision-making for the platform. It investigates the pricing models and entry decisions of IoT platforms. Design/methodology/approach In this study, we have formulated a game-theoretic model to scrutinize the influence of the IoT platform ventured into the smart device market on the pre-existing suppliers operating under subscription-based and usage-based pricing agreements. Findings Our outcome shows that introducing an IoT platformâs smart device has a differential effect on manufacturers depending on their contract type. Notably, our research indicates that introducing the platformâs own smart device within the subscription-based model does not negatively impact the profitability of incumbent manufacturers, so long as there is a noticeable discrepancy in the quality of the smart devices. However, our findings within the usage-based model demonstrate that despite the variance in smart device quality differentiation, the platformâs resolution to launch their device and impose their pricing agreements adversely affects established manufacturers. Additionally, we obtain valuable Intel regarding the platformâs entry strategies and contractual inclinations. We demonstrate that the platform is incentivized to present its smart device when reasonable entry costs remain. Furthermore, the platform prefers subscription-based contracts when the subscription fee is relatively high in non-platform entry and entry cases. Originality/value These findings hold significant practical implications for firms operating in an IoT-based supply chain.
Maher Alharby, Ali Alssaiari, Saad Alateef, Nigel Thomas ¡ 5 authors
Abstract This study analyzes the security implications of Proof-of-Work blockchains with respect to the stale block rate and the lack of a block verification process. The stale block rate is a crucial security metric that quantifies the proportion of rejected blocks in the blockchain network. The absence of a block verification process represents another critical security concern, as it permits the potential for invalid transactions within the network. In this article, we propose and implement a quantitative and analytical model to capture the primary operations of Proof-of-Work blockchains utilizing the Performance Evaluation Process Algebra. The proposed model can assist blockchain designers, architects, and analysts in achieving the ideal security level for blockchain systems by determining the proper network and consensus settings. We conduct extensive experiments to determine the sensitivity of security to four aspects: the number of active miners and their mining hash rates, the duration between blocks, the latency in block propagation, and the time required for block verification, all of which have been shown to influence the outcomes. We contribute to the findings of the existing research by conducting the first analysis of how the number of miners affects the frequency of stale block results, as well as how the delay in block propagation influences the incentives received by rational miners who choose to avoid the block verification process.
Guanmei Liu, Yunning Zhao, Shenghai Zhou, Xiaofeng Shao
We investigate the impact of rival entry on blockchain technology development by modelling a supply chain, in which an incumbent manufacturer (she), facing the entry of an entrant manufacturer (it), develops the blockchain platform through investments to improve the traceability and transparency of products procured from one supplier (he). Our study shows the rival entry (competition) may not necessarily promote blockchain technology adopted by the incumbent manufacturer, whether the blockchain platform is permissioned or non-permissioned. Furthermore, the entry of a new firm may trigger an âall-winâ situation for all parties involved not only in the permissioned scenario but, surprisingly, also in the non-permissioned one. In such a situation, the incumbent manufacturer and the supplier will be both more profitable conditionally, after the entrant manufacturer enters the market. Finally, the issue that a permissioned or non-permissioned blockchain platform should be built is discussed in this work. If the use cost coefficient and the development cost coefficient of blockchain technology are both low, or if the use cost coefficient is high while the development cost coefficient is low (not very low), the incumbent manufacturer should establish a permissioned blockchain platform, and otherwise a non-permissioned one.
Shuang Li, Cheng Zhang, Lihao Zhang
No abstract is available for this record.
Rahul Mishra, Dharavath Ramesh, Nazeeruddin Mohammad, Bhaskar Mondal
No abstract is available for this record.
Anand K. Bapatla
Globalization has transformed the pharmaceutical industry into a vast, interconnected network. However, this complexity has led to inefficiencies in the supply chain, with existing ERP systems struggling to keep up due to their centralized nature, resulting in a lack of transparency and increased errors. This research proposes efficient distributed ledger-based architectures to address these challenges. In Chapter 3, a new transparent supply chain architecture is introduced to eliminate blind spots and enable stakeholders to verify the authenticity of pharmaceutical products. This system creates a secure, single source of truth for the entire lifecycle of medicines, thereby eliminating counterfeits. Chapter 4 focuses on securing the cold pharmaceutical supply chain using IoT and distributed ledgers. The proposed architecture monitors and controls environmental parameters, ensuring safe drug transport. Scalability is addressed with a novel proof of authentication (PoAh) blockchain called EasyChain. In Chapter 5, the serialization of pharmaceutical products is enhanced through digital twinning, providing an efficient and cost-effective solution while complying with regulations. This research aims to create scalable and efficient pharmaceutical supply chains, reducing counterfeits and improving overall security.
XueâYan Wu, Xujin Pu, ZhiâPing Fan
The adoption of blockchain technology helps to track and trace products in supply chains and enhance consumer trust. This paper considers a three-tier supply chain consisting of a supplier, a manufacturer, and a retailer, within which the supplier and the manufacturer may output defective products unintentionally. The goal is to explore the strategy of adopting blockchain technology for the supply chain considering possible product defects. We obtain three main results. First, counterintuitively, while the adoption of blockchain technology can benefit firms with either high or low product defect rates under certain conditions, firms with low product defect rates will benefit more from adopting blockchain technology than firms with high product defect rates. Moreover, the adoption of blockchain technology can achieve a win-win situation for firms and social welfare. Second, the retailerâs risk-aversion stimulates the supplier and the manufacturer to adopt blockchain technology but hinders the retailer from adopting it. Third, product defects and the retailerâs risk-aversion affect blockchain technology implementation cost sharing among supply chain members in both directions, depending on the retailerâs quality inspection input, consumer traceability awareness, and blockchain efficiency. This study provides useful management insights for practitioners of blockchain technology.
Qihui Lu, Changhua Liao, Xiangfeng Chen
No abstract is available for this record.
Alvi Ataur Khalil, Mohammad Ashiqur Rahman
Optimistic rollup has emerged as a promising Layer 2 (L2) scaling solution for blockchain; however, its existing protocols are vulnerable to front/back-running activities, where an opportunistic rollup operator can strategically alter the transactions' order to create an arbitrage opportunity. Specifically, in the limited edition ERC-721 standardized non-fungible tokens (NFTs), the re-ordering of transactions introduces a lucrative threat landscape due to its scarcity-driven pricing and market volatility. In this work, we introduce PAROLE, a novel attack technique on optimistic rollup systems, where an adversarial aggregator re-orders the NFT transactions in an optimal way, leveraging model-free deep reinforcement learning (DRL) to maximize the balance of a target account. We create our own NFT called the âPAROLE Tokenâ (PT) and deploy it in the OpenSea marketplace via Optimism Goerli to validate the attack impact. Furthermore, we collect NFT snapshots from rollup mainchains to analyze the impact in real-world NFT marketplaces.
S. Natarajan, Anupama Jawale
No abstract is available for this record.
Jizhou Zhan, Gewei Zhang, HeapâYih Chong, Xiangfeng Chen
Blockchain technology enables innovative financing models in supply-chain finance. This research constructs a tripartite evolutionary game model that includes core enterprises as employers, small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as contractors, and banks as financial institutions, where they have been simulated for their impact on blockchain technology, especially on the strategic choices of supply-chain financing behavior and the systemâs evolutionary path under core enterprisesâ guarantee mechanism. The findings show the application of blockchain technology can effectively reduce the regulatory and review costs for financial institutions, thereby enhancing the efficiency of supply-chain financing. Particularly, blockchain technology provides a more reliable credit endorsement platform for SMEs in reducing their tendency to default. The guarantee mechanism of core enterprises is more effective with the support of blockchain technology, which helps to build more solid supply-chain financial cooperation relationships. The research contributes to the theoretical research on the integration of blockchain technology into supply-chain finance, especially for improving the operational efficiency of financial services. It also highlights the need for blockchain-backed guarantees from core enterprises in optimizing supply-chain financial services.
Reza Lotfi, Amirhossein Khanbaba, Hamzah Ali Alkhazaleh, Mehdi Changizi ¡ 7 authors
No abstract is available for this record.
Shunya Tamai, Shoji Kasahara
With the widespread adoption of blockchain technology, a novel organizational structure known as Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) has attracted considerable attention. DAOs facilitate decision-making through member voting, realizing the governance in a decentralized manner. However, DAOs face unique challenges compared to traditional organization. This paper focuses on two key challenges of governance within DAOs: the whale problem and collusion issue. The whale problem is characterized by the concentration of power among specific members, while for the collusion problem, voting results are distorted by fraudulent collaboration. In terms of voting, we consider Quadratic Voting, a voting system expected to deter the concentration of voting power among a subset of participants, analyzing its resistance to the collusion problem. We show with numerical examples that in comparison to Linear Voting, Quadratic Voting lacks resistance to collusion. Then, we propose a voting mechanism that integrates Quadratic Voting with the Vote escrow tokens, demonstrating the mitigation of the whale problem while acquiring resilience to collusion in the decision-making process. The numerical examples confirm the high efficacy of our proposed model.
Ardavan Babaei, Erfan Babaee TÄąrkolaee, Alireza Amjadian
Risk and uncertainty are crucial factors in decision-making processes, especially when integrating emerging technologies into essential systems like supply chains. Failing to adequately consider significant risks can disrupt supply chain operations, leading to a loss of competitive edge and causing financial and reputational damage. On the other hand, the complex nature of new technology environments, differing viewpoints among stakeholders, and the challenges of interpreting data introduce a variety of uncertainties in decision-making. In this study, we conduct a thorough examination of how blockchain strategies can be applied within supply chain frameworks. Our analysis utilizes data-driven network decision-making models that are refined to effectively manage uncertainty and risk. These models take into account aspects such as supply chain dynamics and technological factors. Importantly, we meld risk considerations with our models to tackle efficiency shortfalls, while also accounting for uncertainty caused by ambiguous and stochastic data environments. By applying and assessing these models in a real-world case study of the oil and gas industry, our research uncovers insightful observations. Specifically, we find that adopting a localization strategy presents specific risks, while a single-use strategy yields significant efficiency improvements.
R. Dhivya, J. Senthilkumar, Sadanagiri Haritha, J. Angelene Vidhya ¡ 8 authors
No abstract is available for this record.
Hassan Younis, Omar M. Bwaliez, Manaf AlâOkaily, Muhammad Tanveer
Purpose This study conducts a thorough literature review and meta-analysis to explore the adoption of blockchain technology (BCT) in supply chain management (SCM). It aims to identify the potential benefits, challenges, and critical factors influencing the implementation of this technology in supply chains. Design/methodology/approach A systematic analysis of 157 highly cited publications is performed, offering insights into research trends, citations, industries, research methods, and contextual aspects. Thematic analysis is employed to uncover key findings regarding enablers, barriers, drivers, challenges, benefits, and drawbacks associated with BCT adoption in supply chains. Findings The analysis highlights the complexities and opportunities involved in adopting BCT in SCM. A proposed model aligns with five dimensions, including inter-organizational, intra-organizational, technological, legal, and to assist businesses in harnessing the potential of BCT, overcoming obstacles, and managing challenges. This model provides practical recommendations for navigating the intricacies of BCT implementation while balancing associated challenges and risks. Practical implications Organizations operating in supply chains can leverage the insights gained from this investigation to position themselves at the forefront of BCT adoption. By implementing the proposed model, they can unlock benefits such as increased transparency, efficiency, trust, and cost reduction. Originality/value The novelty of this paper lies in its extensive review of publications on Blockchain Technology adoption in supply chains. It offers insights into various aspects such as enablers, barriers, drivers, challenges, benefits, and drawbacks. Additionally, the paper presents a comprehensive model specifically designed for successful adoption of Blockchain Technology in supply chains. This model addresses multiple dimensions including inter-organizational, intra-organizational, technological, legal, and financial.
Eren Yigit, Tamer DaÄ
This paper investigates the potential of integrating supply chain management with blockchain technology, specifically by implementing smart contracts on the Ethereum network using Solidity. The paper explores supply chain management concepts, blockchain, distributed ledger technology, and smart contracts in the context of their integration into supply chains to increase traceability, transparency, and accountability with faster processing times. After investigating these technologiesâ applications and potential use cases, a framework for smart contract implementation for supply chain management is constructed. Potential data models and functions of a smart contract implementation improving supply chain management processes are discussed. After constructing a framework, the effects of the proposed system on supply chain processes are explained. The proposed framework increases the reliability of the supply chain history due to the usage of DLT (distributed ledger technology). It utilizes smart contracts to increase the manageability and traceability of the supply chain. The proposed framework also eliminates the SPoF (Single Point of Failure) vulnerabilities and external alteration of the transactional data. However, due to the ever-changing and variable nature of the supply chains, the proposed architecture might not be a one-size-fits-all solution, and tailor-made solutions might be necessary for different supply chain management implementations.
Zineb Kamal Idrissi, Mohamed Lachgar, Hamid Hrimech, Yousfi Meryem ¡ 6 authors
The BlockSupply project is a pioneering initiative that seeks to redefine supply chain management by leveraging blockchain technology to ensure real-time monitoring of product movements and enhance transparency, security, and traceability. The software offers key functionalities such as creating a private blockchain network, integrating tracking sensors for real-time data collection, secure recording of product data, user authentication, authorization management, and alerts for abnormal events. It is developed using technologies like Web3.js, React.js, Solidity, Ganache, and GitHub, which are integrated into the projectâs architecture to create an efficient and secure blockchain-based supply chain solution. Furthermore, the projectâs impact is expected to be significant, contributing to scientific advancements in secure and efficient supply chain operations and reshaping the landscape of logistics traceability. As the software gains traction in real-world scenarios, its transformative influence on data reliability, security, and operational efficiency in supply chain research is poised to be showcased in publications. ⢠Blockchain boosts real-time supply monitoring and security. ⢠Utilizes Web3.js, React.js, and Solidity for robust system. ⢠Mitigates fraud and errors in supply chain management. ⢠Streamlines inventory via advanced tracking and sensors. ⢠Open-source, enhances operational efficiency significantly.
Wei Pu, Shuang Ma, Xiangbin Yan
The booming development of customised e-commerce makes e-commerce supply chains experience a severe test of consumer service level (CSL). An efficient e-commerce supply chain resilience optimisation method addressing economic performance and service performance is proposed to improve customised services under disruption risks. The proposed method includes a hybrid strategy considering both a resistance strategy with blockchain (BCT) adoption and time-dependent recovery strategies simultaneously. A two-stage multi-period multi-product stochastic programming with BCT adoption is then proposed, which (1) implements BCT as the resistance strategy in the pre-disruption stage; (2) collaborates four recovery strategies in the post-disruption stage; (3) supports the e-tailer in making decisions and optimises his profit and order fulfillment time while taking product priorities into account. Using the actual data of Chinese e-commerce during the public health emergency in 2020, it is demonstrated that (1) the applicability of the model with BCT adoption in both supply chain resilience and CSL improvement; (2) the performance of the hybrid strategy in long-term disruption management; (3) the efficiency and robustness of the proposed solution approach for multi-objective high-dimensional stochastic programming problems. E-tailers can optimise decision-making under long-term disruptions by the proposed methodology in practices.
Huimin Zhang, Zhenkai Lou, Fujun Hou, Yan Yan
Abstract This paper investigates blockchain technology (BT) adoption strategy in a platform dualâchannel supply chain, wherein the supplier establishes a direct selling channel (DC) in addition to the existing reselling channel (RC) of the eâretailer. Both the supplier and the eâretailer are riskâaverse, and they have access to consumers through a common online platform. The online platform possesses the capability to introduce BT and can opt to introduce it to neither, one (DC or RC) or both channels. Game models for the four strategies are developed, and the corresponding equilibrium outcomes are obtained using backward induction. Our analysis reveals that when competition intensity is high and both perceived risk aversion level and BT's unit cost are low, the online platform prefers only DC with adopting BT. Otherwise, it prefers both channels with adopting BT. The supplier shares the same preference as the online platform for BT adoption strategy. Interestingly, the eâretailer prefers only DC with adopting BT only when BT's unit cost is high; otherwise, she prefers solely RC with adopting BT. Furthermore, we enhance the basic model by modifying parameter configurations and the sequence game, and verify that our main findings in these extensions remain robust.
Cristian Valencia-Payan, David Griol, Juan Carlos Corrales
Abstract A sustainable supply chain management strategy reduces risks and meets environmental, economic and social objectives by integrating environmental and financial practices. In an ever-changing environment, supply chains have become vulnerable at many levels. In a global supply chain, carefully tracing a product is of great importance to avoid future problems. This paper describes a self-updating smart contract, which includes data validation, for tracing global supply chains using blockchains. Our proposal uses a machine learning model to detect anomalies on traceable data, which helps supply chain operators detect anomalous behavior at any point in the chain in real time. Hyperledger Caliper has been used to evaluate our proposal, and obtained a combined average throughput of 184 transactions per second and an average latency of 0.41 seconds, ensuring that our proposal does not negatively impact supply chain processes while improving supply chain management through data anomaly detection.
Zhe Ma, Xuhesheng Chen, Tiejiang Sun, Xukang Wang ¡ 6 authors
Modern supply chain systems face significant challenges, including lack of transparency, inefficient inventory management, and vulnerability to disruptions and security threats. Traditional optimization methods often struggle to adapt to the complex and dynamic nature of these systems. This paper presents a novel blockchain-based zero-trust supply chain security framework integrated with deep reinforcement learning (SAC-rainbow) to address these challenges. The SAC-rainbow framework leverages the Soft ActorâCritic (SAC) algorithm with prioritized experience replay for inventory optimization and a blockchain-based zero-trust mechanism for secure supply chain management. The SAC-rainbow algorithm learns adaptive policies under demand uncertainty, while the blockchain architecture ensures secure, transparent, and traceable record-keeping and automated execution of supply chain transactions. An experiment using real-world supply chain data demonstrated the superior performance of the proposed framework in terms of reward maximization, inventory stability, and security metrics. The SAC-rainbow framework offers a promising solution for addressing the challenges of modern supply chains by leveraging blockchain, deep reinforcement learning, and zero-trust security principles. This research paves the way for developing secure, transparent, and efficient supply chain management systems in the face of growing complexity and security risks.
Giovanna Culot, Matteo Podrecca, Guido Nassimbeni
Purpose This study analyzes the performance implications of adopting blockchain to support supply chain business processes. The technology holds as many promises as implementation challenges, so interest in its impact on operational performance has grown steadily over the last few years. Design/methodology/approach Drawing on transaction cost economics and the contingency theory, we built a set of hypotheses. These were tested through a long-term event study and an ordinary least squares regression involving 130 adopters listed in North America. Findings Compared with the control sample, adopters displayed significant abnormal performance in terms of labor productivity, operating cycle and profitability, whereas sales appeared unaffected. Firms in regulated settings and closer to the end customer showed more positive effects. Neither industry-level competition nor the early involvement of a project partner emerged as relevant contextual factors. Originality/value This research presents the first extensive analysis of operational performance based on objective measures. In contrast to previous studies and theoretical predictions, the results indicate that blockchain adoption is not associated with sales improvement. This can be explained considering that secure data storage and sharing do not guarantee the factual credibility of recorded data, which needs to be proved to customers in alternative ways. Conversely, improvements in other operational performance dimensions confirm that blockchain can support inter-organizational transactions more efficiently. The results are relevant in times when, following hype, there are signs of disengagement with the technology.