Blockchain Technology-Enabled Smart Product-Service System Lifecycle Management: A Conceptual Framework

Smart product-service system (SPSS) is a new business model that integrates smart products and e-services to satisfy customer needs better and improve enterprise competitiveness. In case to reasonably and efficiently manage the products, services, information, and data generated throughout the SPSS lifecycle, it is necessary to conquer the problem of data insecurity and the low-trust between stakeholders. Blockchain can provide solutions because of its characteristics such as decentralized, irreversibility of records and smart contracts, etc. To solve the problem, this paper develops a conceptual framework for smart PSS lifecycle management which consists of four layers: perception layer, business resource layer, blockchain layer, and application layer. Furthermore, this paper introduces the typical improved services at each stage and an illustrative case of smart coffee machine service system. Finally, the paper puts forward the future work combined with limitations. This framework will help stakeholders achieve more secure and efficient SPSS lifecycle management and further enhance enterprise competitiveness.