Opportunities and challenges of blockchain for multi-sided platforms

Bendig, David; Charlet, Maximilian

Research article (journal) | Peer reviewed

Abstract

Blockchain appears promising in meeting the challenges of digital multi-sided platforms by limiting the power of centralized intermediaries. Research has addressed individual aspects of blockchain, including decentralized decision-making, trust mechanisms, and incentivization measures. A comprehensive overview of blockchain's concrete opportunities and challenges for multi-sided platforms can help research work toward a more holistic view. We aim to provide current knowledge on these nascent developments by performing a developmental literature review. We find that platforms can modularly adopt different technological and governance-related blockchain features. We develop a conceptual framework of eighteen opportunities and challenges of blockchain for multi-sided platforms. Last, we highlight mutual and sometimes contrary effects between these opportunities and challenges.

Details about the publication

JournalElectronic Markets
Volume35
Article number25
StatusPublished
Release year2025
Language in which the publication is writtenEnglish
DOI10.1007/s12525-025-00765-z
Link to the full texthttps://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12525-025-00765-z#citeas
Keywords-

Authors from the University of Münster

Bendig, David
Professorship of Entrepreneurship (Prof. Bendig)
Charlet, Maximilian
Chair for Entrepreneurship (Prof. Bendig) (ENT)