The improvement of the logistics system through the introduction of blockchain technology

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to analyze the current state of the operational security of the seaport and the feasibility of the digitalization of operational processes. Statistics and research of global companies confirm the relevance of this study. The research is based on theoretical methods, involving the analysis of previous publications based on the area, statistics, and technological features of the operational activities of the seaport. In the article, the author has considered the prospects for the introduction of digital technologies, namely blockchain technology, in the process of organizing the processing of ships by seaports in Ukraine. Analysis of the statistical indicators of Ukraine’s international activity provides insight into the importance of the transport sector for stable economic development. In addition, global research proves the possibility of introducing a blockchain in any area of human economic activity. The author of the article identified that blockchain is already used in various fields in the world, such as finance, logistics, identity cards, retail and e-commerce, and healthcare. The author analyzed and structured the technological map of ship processing with the clarification of time intervals to understand its effectiveness and practical necessity. The author chose a typical operation of scheduling ships to study the possibilities of implementing a blockchain. The list of required information and documents corresponds to the items of the technological system. The analysis of the technological map allowed to determine that 72 hours – 5 units – are need to perform the ship processing planning operation. Contractors must add a list of parameters of the vessel, cargo, and some documents for the safe operation of the seaport. The author provided a graphical interpretation of the ship processing process before the introduction of innovations and the possible ship processing process after the introduction of blockchain technology for comparison. According to the results of the study, the author has identified areas for improving the level of economic security of the seaport. Thus, it is planned that the introduction of innovation will: reduce the time cost for processing information, documents, and requests; reduce monetary costs for processing information, documents, and inquiries; increase the level of security of operational activities of seaports; and increase the level of competitiveness of Ukrainian ports in international transport operations.