Supply Chain Automation, Blockchain Technology, and Logistics Performance in Industrial Sectors

Abstract

This research aims to discuss the role of the supply chain automation and blockchain in the logistics performance in industrial sectors. The research is qualitative involving the analysis of company reports, blockchain implementation case studies, logistics performance records and in-depth interviews with the managers, information technology specialists and logistics coordinators of the supply chain. The participants were selected through purposive sampling and 20-30 participants were selected who have experience in the digital supply chain systems. Data was analysed using thematic analysis to identify key themes, including transparency, operational efficiency, traceability, and operational challenges of automation and blockchain integration. Overall the results demonstrate that blockchain technology can greatly enhance data transparency and the end-to-end traceability of the process and that automation can significantly reduce lead times and error rates. However, there are several challenges associated with interoperability, costs and organizational change requirements. The paper offers theoretical and practical implications for industrial organizations that want to use digital transformation strategies to bring about sustainable logistics performance improvement.