Digital enablement of blockchain: Evidence from HNA group

Blockchain, the distributed ledger underlying bitcoin, has attracted much attention and stimulated rich discussions. However, extant discussions are mostly conceptual expositions, and empirical evidence of how to use the technology is limited. This case analysis fills this gap by conducting a study on Hainan Airlines (HNA) group, a large conglomerate, which has successfully implemented a blockchain-enabled E-commerce platform to offer employees flexible benefits. The case study unveils that blockchain of value in three ways: 1) issuing crypto-currency, 2) protecting sensitive information, and 3) eliminating institutional intermediaries. These findings provide a reference point for IT and general managers who intend to use blockchain to digitally enable their organizations further.