Adapting project management life cycles for blockchain implementation: A thematic pilot study

Blockchain implementation challenges traditional project management practices due to its decentralized, cross-organizational nature.This exploratory study examines how project management life cycle processes must adapt to support successful blockchain adoption.Using open coding and thematic analysis of five expert interviews, key themes were identified and mapped to the five PMBOK process groups.The findings reveal that blockchain projects demand broader stakeholder engagement, iterative planning, human-centered execution, decentralized monitoring, and long-term sustainability planning.By aligning emergent themes with established project management phases, this study highlights the need for a flexible, ecosystem-focused approach to managing blockchain initiatives.The results offer practical insights for project managers and contribute to ongoing efforts to integrate emerging technologies within established project frameworks.