13. Beyond the Bitcoin: Analysis of Challenges to Implement Blockchain in the Jordanian Public Sector

Blockchain technology is the most advanced “disruptive innovation” that has caught researchers’ attention. This cutting-edge concept is the underlying technology for digital currencies (e.g., Bitcoin). Blockchain technology (BCT) holds immense potential for e-services by performing transactions in a permanent and verifiable manner. However, the adoption and implementation of Blockchain technology in various services and industries are a challenging task. The adoption and use of BCT require the consideration of a wide range of determinants, over and above the dominant technology focus of most existing research efforts. While academic literature on BCT is only beginning to emerge, the majority is concentrated on the technicalities of this latest technology and is inclined to ignore the complexities of technology adoption in private and public organizations. Drawing from data collected from 213 IT experts and a focused review of extant literature, this study identified a range of challenges (technological, institutional/organizational, and market) to the successful implementation of BCT across different government organizations. The proposed factors can be used by the public sector as a reference point for the efficient adoption of BCT and by scholars for further practical and theoretical research into BCT technology.