What motivates public sector organisations to use blockchain?

Abstract

Purpose

This article investigates decision-makers’ motivations in public sector organisations (PSOs) for pursuing blockchain technology (BCT) projects in government settings. The research sheds light on the underlying motivations that drive decision-makers to pursue BCT despite its inherent complexity and uncertainty.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a grounded theory approach to explore the motivational factors influencing PSO decision-makers. It integrates theoretical perspectives from public innovation, public administration and technology adoption scholarship to link these motivational elements to academic debates within public management literature. The empirical insights are derived from semi-structured interviews with representatives involved in BCT initiatives.

Findings

In the pre-adoption stage, decision-makers are motivated to engage with blockchain for future services if there are knowledgeable stakeholders with relevant experience, a well-justified business case, sufficient resources and a supportive organisational environment free from undue pressure for immediate results. Conversely, uncertain project continuity, limited existing legislation and the PSOs’ internal regulations are seen as demotivators to engage with BCT.

Research limitations/implications

The findings call for further research to examine the extent to which the identified (de)motivators interact with managerial decisions, such as delegate control or governance design, in the actual implementation processes.

Originality/value

By combining theoretical insights with empirical data, this study offers a unique perspective on how organisations approach new technologies while also underscoring the need to consider unique aspects of BCT in the public sector setting, such as its governance and control, infrastructural and legal changes and the necessary skills.

Citation

Mahula, S., Tan, E., Crompvoets, J. and Timmers, P. (2025), "What motivates public sector organisations to use blockchain?", International Journal of Public Sector Management, Vol. 38 No. 1, pp. 118-138. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJPSM-12-2023-0361