Towards a Theory of Blockchain as a Socio-Informational-Technical System: Perceptions and challenges of adopting verifiable credentials in the public sector.

Blockchain technology and VCs, in principle, can enhance the security, privacy, efficiency, and trustworthiness of the digital exchange of credentials. However, several challenges hinder the adoption of VCs and blockchain, including resistance from the public and some authorities driven by a lack of understanding of the technologies and political motives. There is a limited empirical and contextual understanding of these barriers, mainly relying on anecdotal narratives and inferences from emerging literature. This study aims to provide one of the first empirical studies of the institutional actors’ perspectives, challenges, and concerns about VC adoptions. The study uses a qualitative approach of participatory observation, document analysis, and interviews to explore stakeholders’ perceptions and approaches to VCs. The insights will contribute to a sustainable design and promotion of VCs in the public sector that can leverage the technologies’ strengths and ensure alignment with the regulatory and institutional values.

Faculty Supervisor:

Victoria Lemieux

Student:

Partner:

Quartech Systems Ltd.

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program: