Wang, Z.; Hu, X.; Wei, A.; Yang, W. and Dong, Z. (2026) A blockchain-based system for just-in-time in construction supply chains. Built Environment Project and Asset Management, 16(2), pp. 377-395. ISSN 2044-124X
Abstract
Purpose – Blockchain technology is increasingly recognized for enhancing supply chain (SC) performance and collaboration in construction. Just-In-Time (JIT) management promotes precision, efficiency and timely delivery. Integrating blockchain with JIT presents a promising solution to long-standing issues in the construction supply chain (CSC), such as fragmentation, inefficiencies and poor coordination. However, this integration remains underexplored. This study addresses the gap by developing a blockchain-based CSC system to optimize JIT implementation, aiming to streamline workflows, enhance transparency and improve stakeholder coordination in the complex and fragmented construction environment. Design/methodology/approach – Employing a systematic literature review and expert brainstorming, a blockchain-based CSC system for facilitating JIT management is modeled and developed using the Hyperledger Fabric platform. A real-world case study is conducted to evaluate its effectiveness and efficiency gains. The comprehensive methodological framework ensures both theoretical rigor and practical validation. Findings – The proposed system aligns with the four key objectives of JIT and twelve functions of blockchain within the CSC lifecycle process. Both public and private blockchain platforms for implementing JIT in CSC are established. The case study demonstrates their significance in improving inventory management, shortening lead times and enhancing production and transportation efficiency. Originality/value – This research contributes to the existing knowledge on blockchain adoption in CSC by integrating JIT principles. It provides a novel framework for incorporating blockchain and JIT to enhance efficiency and transparency in CSC operations, supporting industry-wide adoption. It offers valuable insights for practitioners and researchers interested in leveraging blockchain for JIT in CSC optimization.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | blockchain technology; construction supply chain; inventory management; just-in-time; procurement; supply chain digitization |
| Index terms: | systematic literature review, coordination, blockchain, transparency, platform, practitioner, just-in-time, inventory, effectiveness, lead time, implementation, validation, case study, construction supply chain, collaboration, efficiency, lifecycle, fragmentation, workflow, integration, methodology |
| Subjects: | management, project controls, digital design, data collection methods, research evaluation and metrics, performance management, computing systems, organizational analysis, professional development, business, practitioner, construction logistics, project delivery, research methods, lean logistics, inventory management, contractual arrangements |
| Topics: | Supply Chain Management, Information Management, Quality Management, Digital Applications, Time Control, Procurement, Business Strategy, Organizational Design, Project Management, Research Practice, Roles and Professions |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCTE |
N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here