Blockchain and agency theory in supply chain management: A question of trust

IF 20.1 1区管理学 Q1 INFORMATION SCIENCE & LIBRARY SCIENCE

International Journal of Information Management Pub Date : 2024-01-11 DOI:10.1016/j.ijinfomgt.2023.102747

Maximiliano JEANNERET MEDINA , Cédric Baudet , Jean-Fabrice Lebraty

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Abstract

This paper aims to explore how does the introduction of blockchain technologies impact trust in existing supply chain relationships. To do so, we conducted a multiple case study through the lens of agency theory. Three Swiss companies which are carrying out blockchain projects for their supply chain have been analyzed in semi-structured interviews and document analysis. Two significant findings of the impact on principal-agent relationships are stressed. Firstly, blockchain technologies can reduce the asymmetry of information, increase the control of agents, and consequently minimize the trust in the principal towards the agents. Secondly and paradoxically, the control mechanisms inherent in these technologies can decrease the agent's trust in the principal. Thus, questioning trust is necessary, both as an antecedent and an unexpected consequence when adopting blockchain technologies. Finally, we provide guidelines for initiating the adoption of blockchain technologies in supply chains.

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供应链管理中的区块链和代理理论：信任问题

本文旨在探讨区块链技术的引入如何影响现有供应链关系中的信任。为此，我们从代理理论的角度进行了多案例研究。通过半结构式访谈和文件分析，对三家正在开展供应链区块链项目的瑞士公司进行了分析。研究强调了对委托代理关系影响的两个重要发现。首先，区块链技术可以减少信息不对称，加强对代理人的控制，从而最大限度地减少委托人对代理人的信任。其次，矛盾的是，这些技术固有的控制机制会降低代理人对委托人的信任。因此，在采用区块链技术时，有必要对信任提出质疑，这既是前因后果，也是意想不到的结果。最后，我们为在供应链中开始采用区块链技术提供了指导。

本文章由计算机程序翻译，如有差异，请以英文原文为准。

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来源期刊

International Journal of Information Management INFORMATION SCIENCE & LIBRARY SCIENCE-

CiteScore

53.10

自引率

6.20%

发文量

111

审稿时长

24 days

期刊介绍： The International Journal of Information Management (IJIM) is a distinguished, international, and peer-reviewed journal dedicated to providing its readers with top-notch analysis and discussions within the evolving field of information management. Key features of the journal include: Comprehensive Coverage: IJIM keeps readers informed with major papers, reports, and reviews. Topical Relevance: The journal remains current and relevant through Viewpoint articles and regular features like Research Notes, Case Studies, and a Reviews section, ensuring readers are updated on contemporary issues. Focus on Quality: IJIM prioritizes high-quality papers that address contemporary issues in information management.