What role can blockchain play in supply-chain traceability?

Start with the supply-chain process

Define the traceability question before choosing technology. Procurement, purchasing, inventory, order management and manufacturing are distinct functions, and a proposed application should be assessed against the processes it would touch. Rohan Hall’s enterprise systems experience spans those functions, including a global PeopleSoft ERP implementation covering manufacturing, supply chain and financial products.

Consider how the application fits other systems

Blockchain interoperability is part of the enterprise adoption picture. If a traceability application needs to work alongside existing systems, ask how those systems will connect and how the application fits the wider architecture. Rohan Hall has built and led technology for blockchain interoperability and scalable blockchain applications.

Evaluate trust as well as technology

Traceability decisions also call for attention to evidence, transparency, governance, assurance and standards. Use those considerations to examine how a proposed application would support the information people need to rely on, rather than treating blockchain itself as the answer.

Frequently asked questions

Is traceability the only supply-chain-related blockchain topic to consider?

No. Blockchain-related work also includes verifiable credentials and decentralized identity concepts. Whether those are relevant depends on the question your team is trying to answer.

Does supply-chain traceability require replacing an ERP system?

Start by mapping the existing ERP and supply-chain processes the application would touch. Assess its place in that environment rather than assuming a system replacement is the starting point.

What should an enterprise team examine next?

Look more closely at blockchain interoperability and at the assurance, governance and standards involved in enterprise adoption.