  Blockchain is relatively a new area of research. However, a surge of research
studies on the blockchain has taken place in recent years. These research
studies have mostly focused on designing and developing conceptual frameworks
to build more reliable, transparent and efficient digital systems. While
blockchain brings a wide variety of benefits, it also imposes certain
challenges. Therefore, the objective of this research is to understand the
properties of blockchain, its current uses, observed benefits and pitfalls to
provide a balanced understanding of blockchain. A systematic literature review
approach was adopted in this paper in order to attain the objective. A total of
51 articles were selected and reviewed. As outcomes, this research provides a
summary of the state-of-the-art research studies conducted in the area of
blockchain. Furthermore, we develop a set of concept maps aiming to provide
in-depth knowledge on blockchain technology for its efficient and effective
usage in the development of future technological solutions.
