Blockchain and human resource management: Emerging themes and research agenda

Abstract

The potential of Blockchain to solve human resource management (HRM) pain points is increasingly being pitched. This review explores the value of Blockchain in HRM. A systematic search of 622 documents from Scopus, Web of Science, Business Source Complete, ABI/INFORM Collection, and Emerald Insight yielded 25 articles on Blockchain's potential for HRM. The analysis suggests that (1) rather than comparing HR professionals' awareness of blockchain technology against non-HR professionals, it is necessary to inquire about HR professionals' awareness level of the technology; (2) while Blockchain has potential for HRM, the advantages of Blockchain in HRM are often perceived rather than actual, and a convincing rationale for adoption is lacking; (3) the cited contributions of Blockchain to HRM assume a range of assumptions about Blockchain in the cryptocurrency world and reflect a high-level understanding of what Blockchain is or may be; (4) HR professionals and their organisations must examine the likely consequences of blockchain adoption, such as the need for highly sought-after skills, skill distribution between Blockchain and workers, and workers with obsolete skills, and (5) research focus should be on how to deal with the challenges of blockchain adoption rather than the perks that an organisation and HR professionals may gain. Research questions are offered after each theme to encourage further research.