The impact of Blockchain technology utilisation on supply chain integration in the maritime industry

Shin, Sanghoon 2024. The impact of Blockchain technology utilisation on supply chain integration in the maritime industry. PhD Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

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Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this thesis is to empirically investigate the Supply Chain Integration (SCI) strategy in the maritime industry and the effectiveness of Blockchain Technology (BCT) introduced to promote SCI. For this purpose, the concept of maritime supply chain and the integration were concretised, and BCT application factors for maritime SCI were identified. Subsequently, the impact of BCT on SCI was incorporated into the research model and subjected to empirical analysis. Methodology: The blockchain application factors for maritime SCI including domain, benefits and impact were identified using systematic literature review. Based on the finding, the research model to examine the relationship between IT competency, SCI, performance and the moderating role of BCT utilisation (BCU) was developed through Resource-based view (RBV) and value-chain approach. The model was empirically tested using Partial Least Squares – Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) analysis of 302 questionnaire data samples. Additionally, the study employed Conditional Mediation (CoMe) analysis to verify changes in the relationship between IT competency, SCI, and performance based on the extent of BCT utilisation. Findings: The application domains of BCT for maritime SCI were identified as document management, transaction management, and cargo/terminal/vessel operations. The research model verified the direct relationship between IT competency, SCI, and performance. The indirect mediation effect of IT competency on performance through SCI was demonstrated showing a significant and positive impact. In addition, the moderating effect of BCU on the relationship between IT competency and SCI was verified to have a significant impact on changes in performance. In other words, this study concludes that the intervention of BCU positively influences the enhancement of SCI by IT competency in maritime organisations, ultimately contributing to the improvement of performance. Originality and value: This thesis provides two critical insights. Firstly, through the application of the RBV, the research theoretically established and empirically verified the relationship between IT competency and SCI capability in maritime organisations for performance improvement. This offers guidelines for maritime organisations on IT investment and the implementation of SCI strategies in the context of innovative IT adoption. Secondly, the study provides a specific domain, benefits, and impacts of utilising BCT for maritime SCI and verifies its actual effectiveness on maritime SCI. The significant findings advance the academic research on BCT adoption in the maritime sector beyond the previous conceptual stage by providing empirical evidence. Moreover, the validation of a comprehensive research model is expected to serve as key evidence for practitioners considering the adoption and utilisation of BCT.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Date Type:	Completion
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Schools > Business (Including Economics)
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	22 May 2025
Last Modified:	22 May 2025 11:12
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/178378

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