IdeaChain: a conceptual proposal for blockchain-based STI policy development

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to discuss the possibility of setting up a platform for inclusive policymaking process drawing upon the blockchain concept. The study posits that blockchain also has great potentials in non-financial applications, such as in policymaking, where there is a need for bottom-up approaches with more decentralized, distributed and evidence-based processes. Design/methodology/approach The study makes use of an analogy-based creative design methodology. The design science paradigm has its roots in engineering and the sciences of the artificial (Simon, 1996). As a problem-solving paradigm for solving complex engineering issues, design science seeks to create innovations that define the ideas, practices, technical capabilities and products through which the analysis, design, implementation and use of information systems can be effectively and efficiently accomplished. In the present study, the policy development theories and the logic of blockchain are synthesized to prepare a task model for the “IdeaChain” concept as a platform for creating, sharing and validating novel ideas as well as converting them into policies or new ventures through the funding mechanisms. Findings The IdeaChain concept is designed and demonstrated through its use in the domain of science, technology and innovation (STI) policy, which can be extended to cover all innovative activities linking the whole process from their emergence, funding, development, implementation and impact upon policy. Originality/value Blockchain is mostly discussed in literature with its impact on financial sector. IdeaChain is the first attempt to explore the potentials of blockchain in STI policymaking.

Foresight study about the use of blockchain to prevent employees’ psychological distress: research avenues and insights for HRM practitioners

“…In terms of opportunities, blockchain can facilitate collaboration (Bedin et al, 2021;Katuwal et al, 2018;Pablo et al, 2021). It can also create of a platform that gathers those who are affected by challenges with those who develop solutions (Burmaoglu et al, 2020). In this case, employees, organizations, healthcare providers, employee assistance services and health insurance services can be gathered around the main objective, i.e.…”

“…For example, blockchain is used as a means of maintaining intellectual property rights within the digital environment (Shatkovskaya et al , 2018). It has also witnessed a non-financial application in areas such as policymaking (Burmaoglu et al , 2020), social responsibility (Bedin et al , 2020) and education (Chen et al , 2018; Alammary et al , 2019). Indeed, blockchain has unlocked a myriad of fresh opportunities for businesses, enabling direct value transfer between participants over the internet (Aste et al , 2017).…”

“…It can serve as a strategic tool to transform HRM departments, indicating its potential to significantly support the development of interventions that foster the creation of a healthy and safe workplace, by the protection of employees’ mental health. As mentioned by Burmaoglu et al (2020), blockchain has the potential to address the world’s most pressing problems. Mental health issues at work are one of these pressing problems (Hamouche, 2020; WHO, 2022b).…”

“…In this regard, blockchain emerges as a promising solution to ensure the protection of such data (Mercer, 2019a). It has the potential to facilitate transparent, evidence-based and participatory processes (Burmaoglu et al , 2020) as well as ensure secure data storage (Ersotelos et al , 2020; Koul and Manvi, 2022). Moreover, it can help to avoid internal fraud and hacks of sensitive employees’ data and health records.…”

A study on entrepreneurial opportunities in digital health-care post-Covid-19 from the perspective of developing countries

“…Structured preparation can be introduced to ensure the alignment of current infrastructure with emerging modern health technology is reviewed and provides entrepreneurship opportunities in unexplored rural areas. Certain small differences have been established about the extent of knowledge of services, the use of a source and the testing stage at which a technique can be used (Ellis et al , 1993) The government has announced plans to expand its science, technology and innovation (STI) policy (Burmaoglu et al ,2020) New business models will be developed, as well as new and loyal consumers, resulting in increased revenue and less vulnerability to economic volatility (Cheah et al , 2019; Khan et al , 2020) A new technology allows routine job hand-over and fault-prone manual information transfer to be avoided. Lightweight, company-grade networking platforms give professionals comparable comfort with their privacy (Quershi et al , 2020).…”