| | DECEMBER 20199CIOReviewknow that what is supposed to happen is happening and verify that it actually did occur. The DNA structure of blockchain is about a central source of agreed truth between external parties. This structure is a new, powerful way of working together because all parties must agree upfront how they will work digitally. Blockchain then governs that agreed truth among external parties. Ideally, an auditable verification mechanism is included in the program to govern that agreed upon truth. Currently, participating parties agree upfront how they intend to work together, but it is hard to ensure they are living up to their commitments. Consequently, these parties often end up in disputes and friction may occur that costs the companies involved valuable time and resources to resolve the conflict. By using blockchain as a third-party intermediary, however, the resolution process happens digitally and in real time. Thus, blockchain technology avoids costly disputes and lengthy reconciliation measures. Finding more efficient and compatible ways of working together with partners, suppliers, vendors and regulatory agencies is the new competitive advantage. Building a blockchain ecosystem will play a major role in making this happen. The best way to start building these ecosystems is by bringing together related parties within a consortium environment. The goal is to foster a network of business partners to create industry solution frameworks and guidelines leveraging blockchain technology. This will maximize opportunities by reducing costs, shortening timeliness and eliminating unnecessary disputes. The best place to start is by focusing on an area that relies heavily on multiple partners and/or vendors and needs digitalization. Next, would be to evaluate the entire process from start to finish with all touch points and document current pain points for all related parties. This process will require including and collaborating with all parties involved in the process both internally and externally to your company.Could your company's new competitive advantage strategy include being part of a collaborative blockchain ecosystem? Is your company ready for this type of culture change? If not, you may be left behind. Digitalization is as much about mindset and culture as it is about tools and technology
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