Modelling the blockchain technology adoption barriers in the Indian education management system

Purpose Blockchain is a nascent technology that has the ability to revolutionize the workings of the educational landscape. However, there are several barriers to the adoption of blockchain technology (BCT). So, this paper aims to determine, rank and analyse the interdependent contextual relationship among the BCT adoption barriers within the education management system (EMS) of higher education institutes. Design/methodology/approach The present research principally uses the technology-organization-environment model for the classification of BCT adoption barriers in the EMS. An integrated dual phase best-worst method and interpretive structural modelling – cross-impact matrix multiplication applied to classification (BWM-ISM-MICMAC) analysis is used for the identification, prioritization and analysis of the contextual relationships among the BCT barriers. Findings The findings of the research show that the environmental barrier among the primary barriers and the lack of government initiatives among the sub-barriers are crucial barriers to BCT adoption in the EMS. Research limitations/implications Certain barriers might not be selected during the literature review and expert opinions might be biased. Future studies should use structural equation modelling to validate the relationships between BCT barriers and conduct similar research across other business sectors to provide valuable insights for scholars and practitioners alike. Practical implications The study facilitates a better perspective of BCT barriers and explores possible solutions more comprehensively for policymakers and field managers. Consequently, it offers viable suggestions for the successful and effective implementation of BCT within the EMS. Originality/value The concept of using the blockchain in academics is a novel one. This study establishes a crucial research base for the smooth adoption of BCT in EMS.