Mapping the Landscape of Blockchain Research in Management and Economics: A Knowledge Visualization Review

Susan Scott^*
*Correspondence: Susan Scott, Department of Information Systems and Computing, Brunel University, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UB8 3PH, UK, Email:

Introduction

Blockchain technology has emerged as a disruptive force with transformative potential in various domains, including management and economics. This mini-review article delves into the burgeoning landscape of blockchain research within these fields, employing knowledge mapping visualization techniques to provide insights into the key themes, trends, and research gaps. By synthesizing existing literature, this review offers a comprehensive overview of the current state of blockchain research in management and economics, facilitating a deeper understanding of its implications and future directions.

Blockchain, the distributed ledger technology underpinning cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, has garnered considerable attention for its potential to revolutionize traditional systems across industries. In management and economics, where trust, transparency, and efficiency are paramount, blockchain holds promise for streamlining operations, enhancing security, and fostering innovation. This review aims to elucidate the evolving landscape of blockchain research within these disciplines, shedding light on the prevailing trends, thematic clusters, and areas ripe for further exploration [1].

To conduct this review, a systematic search of relevant literature was undertaken using academic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Keywords including "blockchain," "management," "economics," and their variations were used to identify peer-reviewed articles published within the past decade. Subsequently, knowledge mapping visualization techniques, such as bibliometric analysis and co-citation mapping, were employed to synthesize the retrieved literature and discern patterns within the research landscape [2].

Description

Studies focusing on the adoption and implementation of blockchain technology within organizational settings emerged as a prominent theme. Research in this area examines the factors influencing the adoption decisions, challenges encountered during implementation, and the impact of blockchain on organizational processes and performance.

With the rapid proliferation of blockchain applications, governance and regulatory frameworks have garnered increased attention. Scholars have explored the legal, ethical, and regulatory implications of blockchain technology, aiming to provide insights into its governance structures and compliance requirements [3].

Given its origins in cryptocurrency, blockchain's applications in finance and economics have been extensively studied. Research in this domain encompasses topics such as decentralized finance (DeFi), tokenization of assets, smart contracts, and the impact of blockchain on traditional financial systems.

Blockchain's potential to enhance transparency, traceability, and accountability in supply chains has spurred research into its applications within this domain. Studies examine how blockchain can mitigate inefficiencies, reduce counterfeiting, and improve the overall resilience of supply chain networks [4].

Blockchain's disruptive potential has catalyzed research on its implications for innovation and entrepreneurship. Scholars investigate how blockchain enables new business models, facilitates crowdfunding through initial coin offerings (ICOs), and fosters entrepreneurial opportunities in decentralized ecosystems.

While blockchain research often intersects with disciplines such as computer science, law, and sociology, there remains a need for greater interdisciplinary collaboration to fully understand its multifaceted implications.

Many existing studies offer snapshots of blockchain adoption or its impact at specific points in time. Longitudinal studies tracking the evolution of blockchain applications over time could provide valuable insights into its longterm effects and challenges [5].

Beyond technical aspects, further research is needed to elucidate the socio-economic implications of widespread blockchain adoption, including its effects on employment, income distribution, and societal trust.

As blockchain systems consume significant computational resources, investigating the environmental sustainability of blockchain technology and exploring eco-friendly alternatives are imperative [6].

Conclusion

This mini-review offers a comprehensive overview of the burgeoning landscape of blockchain research in management and economics. Through knowledge mapping visualization techniques, key themes, trends, and research gaps were elucidated, providing valuable insights for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers alike. As blockchain continues to disrupt traditional paradigms, interdisciplinary collaboration, longitudinal studies, and a focus on socio-economic implications will be instrumental in realizing its transformative potential responsibly.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

None.

References

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