Archivist Readiness to Adopt Blockchain Technology in Managing Digital Archives

Abstract

The adoption of blockchain technology within archival management systems has become increasingly relevant, prompting archivists to adapt their practices to accommodate its implications for digital object management. Although many countries have begun integrating blockchain technology into their archival systems, Indonesia holds the potential for more extensive and impactful applications. Despite this potential, research on the influences of blockchain technology on archives, especially about archivists’ readiness, remains limited. This study assesses the influences of archivists’ readiness to adopt blockchain technology for digital archives management within Indonesia. This study uses a quantitative research approach. Data were collected via random questionnaires distributed to 367 archivists across 22 Ministries and 23 Non-Ministry Government Agencies, covering 70.3% of the total population of interest. The study's findings indicate that archivists’ readiness positively and significantly influences blockchain adoption for digital archives management. Both cognitive and affective aspects of archivist readiness play a partial role in facilitating this adoption. These findings underscore the importance of fostering organizational environments that empower archivists as essential human resources in the face of blockchain technology's challenges and opportunities for long-term growth. A primary limitation of this study is its focus on individual readiness, excluding broader organizational factors that could shape adoption strategies and policies. Future research should consider the role of institutional commitment, belief systems, and organizational culture in supporting technology adoption.Additionally, expanding the sample to include regional archivists may enhance understanding, as differences in technology access could significantly impact readiness levels. Future studies should also encompass various archivist roles to provide a more comprehensive view of archivist readiness for blockchain in digital archives management. Finally, examining work groups within institutions actively adopting blockchain could yield practical insights into the challenges and successes associated with this technological transition.

Keywords

• archivist
• blockchain
• digital archives
• technology readiness