Can Public Blockchains Mitigate Semiconductors Supply Chain Disruption?

Abstract Today's supply chain is more complex in composition and structure. Information loss and late transmission aggravated the bullwhip effect. Lack of reliable information storage, traceability, and accountability have also slowed supply chain management. Blockchain supports distributed networking, information synchronization among nodes, digital encryption, traceable information, and unchangeable block content, making it suitable for the supply chain. This paper presents the public blockchain as a solution to the "bullwhip effect problem in supply chain (SC). The framework is implemented to address the disruption of semiconductors' SC. The framework consists of a checklist to determine the SC's readiness for blockchain adoption. The checklist determines the motivation, timing, and the appropriate platform for adopting blockchain. The framework was validated in the Semiconductors SC by polling four executives: each represents a large company that has many branches in Egypt and the Middle East; each represents a different stage, and they are retail, distribution, manufacturing, and supply. The results showed that the executives agreed that there are perceived benefits to adopting blockchain. At the same time, they are neutral about whether it is the right time for blockchain adoption and disagree that the BC technology is ready for their SC. Finally, some of the public blockchain platforms that can be used and implemented in supply chains were introduced to help enterprises choose the most suitable platform to adopt.