Blockchain for HR: investigating adoption determinants and its role in enhancing data transparency and security

Purpose This study aims to investigate the determinants influencing the adoption of blockchain technology in human resource (HR) practices within the Indian IT sector, using the technology-organization-environment (TOE) framework. It further examines how blockchain technology adoption impacts HR data transparency (HRDT) and HR security and explores its mediating role between contextual factors and these HR outcomes. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected from 478 HR and IT managers across Indian IT firms through a structured questionnaire. The proposed research model was empirically tested using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) via SmartPLS 4.0. Findings The results reveal that relative advantage, security and privacy concerns, system integration, top management support, HR readiness, human capital and competitive pressure significantly and positively influence blockchain technology adoption, while government regulations do not show a significant effect. Moreover, blockchain adoption positively affects HRDT and improves HR security (IHRS). Moreover, blockchain adoption serves as a significant mediator between several TOE factors and the outcomes of HRDT and HR security. Originality/value This study contributes to the emerging literature on blockchain in HR by integrating TOE and diffusion of innovation (DOI) frameworks to explain adoption behavior. It is among the first empirical investigations to confirm the mediating role of blockchain technology adoption in translating technological, organizational and environmental enablers into improved HR data management outcomes, offering valuable implications for practitioners and policymakers in the digital HR domain.