Keru Duan

Blockchain Technology Adoption and Application in Supply Chain Management

The topic focuses on the adoption and application of blockchain technology within the realm of supply chain management. Blockchain, a decentralized, transparent, and immutable ledger system, offers immense potential to revolutionize various aspects of supply chain operations. 

The first part of the research topic, we may address the concept of blockchain technology, its core features, and its inherent advantages over traditional databases. This includes aspects such as transparency, security, immutability, and decentralization. 

Next, the research question moves into the role of blockchain in supply chain management. This involves exploring how blockchain can enhance traceability and transparency, improve efficiency, and reduce fraud in supply chains. Real-world examples of successful blockchain adoption in supply chains, including those of prominent companies, will be discussed to substantiate the theoretical concepts. 

Following this, the study delves into the challenges and barriers in adopting blockchain technology in supply chains. These may include issues related to technology understanding and acceptance, interoperability, regulatory and legal considerations, and the need for standardization. 

Finally, our research will conclude with an examination of future trends and opportunities in the integration of blockchain technology in supply chain management. This includes a look at the potential role of blockchain in facilitating the rise of intelligent supply chains, the interplay of blockchain with other emerging technologies such as AI and IoT, and the potential for blockchain to contribute to sustainable and circular supply chains. 

Email: kxd226@student.bham.ac.uk

Biography

Keru Duan is a Ph.D. candidate in the research group on Supply Chain and Operations Management at the Birmingham Business School. She obtains a master’s degree in 2020 from the University of Manchester, and also completed her undergraduate studies in the United Kingdom. Prior to her Ph.D. journey, Keru held a two-year tenure as a Senior Business Decision Analyst at Tesla's Greater China Headquarters. In this role, she was responsible for formulating vehicle production plans and export strategies for the Greater China region, which included setting sales targets and managing logistics operations. 

Keru's current research focuses on the integrated application of blockchain technology, intelligent supply chain management, and closed-loop supply chain management. In the academic year of 2022-23, she actively participated in the pedagogical work of the business school, serving as a seminar tutor for postgraduate level students in the 'Digital Business Strategy & Data Analysis' module. This experience has enriched her teaching skills and methodologies. 

At present, Keru is dedicated to publishing her research. She is finalizing a systematic literature review that focuses on the application of integrated blockchain technology in supply chain management. Drawing upon her academic background and professional expertise, she aims to develop innovative approaches to address the evolving challenges and complexities within modern supply chains. 

Qualifications

  • MA in Political Economy from the University of Manchester on 02/2021
  • BSc in Accounting and Finance from the Coventry University on 07/2019
  • BSc in Finance from Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics on 07/2019

Teaching Responsibilities

Module delivery tutor for 31607 LM Digital Business Strategy & Data Analytics 2022-23 at Postgraduate level

Research Interests

  • Research on the impact of digital transformation on supply chain management, especially the integrated application of blockchain technology in supply chain management
  • Research on Mathematical Model of Application Performance of Blockchain Technology
  • Research on Closed-loop Supply Chain
  • Research on Reverse Supply Chain and Circular Supply Chain