Paper Number

1757

Abstract

The transformative capacity of blockchain technology is a frequently debated topic in the information systems (IS) and practitioner literature. Yet, rigorous and design-driven research remains relatively uncommon. We document an ongoing design process towards a blockchain-based IT-artefact comprising financial infrastructure for stakeholders in emerging economies. Working with a young NGO, we utilize the design-science research methodology (DSR) in the design, implementation, and evaluation of the IT-artefact. The artefact enables stakeholders to conduct basic financial services by computing transactions, maintaining a savings account, and receiving targeted stimulus payments. Following six months of iterative design and development, we released a global pilot version of the artefact. Over the first nine months, the pilot generated a dataset of 6.6 million transactions amongst 189,379 verified users. By conducting design-driven research, we contribute novel practical insights to the IS discourse on the transformative capacity of blockchain technology and information communication technologies (ICT) in emerging economies.

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