Analysis of the Optimal Application of Blockchain-Based Smart Lockers in the Logistics Industry Based on FFD-SAGA and Grey Decision-Making

Shen-Tsu Wang,Chun-Chi Lien,Meng-Hua Li

doi:10.3390/sym13020329

Abstract

Blockchain technology has been applied to logistics tracking, but it is not cost-effective. The development of smart lockers has solved the problem of repeated distribution to improve logistics efficiency, thereby becoming a solution with convenience and privacy compared to the in-store purchase and pickup alternative. This study prioritized the key factors of smart lockers using a simulated annealing–genetic algorithm by fractional factorial design (FFD-SAGA) and grey relational analysis, and investigated the main users of smart lockers by grey multiple attribute decision analysis. The results show that the Web application programming interface (API) concatenation and money flow provider are the key success factors of smart lockers, and office workers are the main users of the lockers. Hence, how to better meet the needs of office workers will be an issue of concern for service providers.

Highlights

Blockchain technology has not been meeting the expectation of cost-effectiveness in logistic tracking, while smart lockers have been developed to overcome the inefficiency of repeated distribution to improve logistics efficiency
Many smart locker companies have emerged in the market
When users cannot collect items directly, the courier can deliver the items to lockers, and recipients can collect the items when they are free. They can be used for the mailing function; as long as the items are put into the smart pickup lockers, the logistics personnel will pick up and deliver the goods

Summary

Introduction

Blockchain technology has not been meeting the expectation of cost-effectiveness in logistic tracking, while smart lockers have been developed to overcome the inefficiency of repeated distribution to improve logistics efficiency. It enhances convenience and privacy, as compared to the in-store purchase and pickup mode. (1) the utilization of smart lockers is increased; (2) small logistics service providers can share the lockers (taking advantage of the accounting and benefit distribution functions of blockchain); and (3) there is improved service during holidays. The market penetration level of smart lockers can be intensified within the reach of users, thereby attracting more users to the service, building the consumer habit of using smart lockers, shortening the investment return period of smart locker developers, increasing the economic benefits, and creating a smooth ecosphere [1,2,3]

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion