Description
The increasing complexity of the software supply chain requires extensive transparency,
which is intended to be achieved through Software Bills of Materials (SBOM). Despite
regulatory requirements and growing relevance, the actual industrial adoption of
SBOMs remains rather low. Previous research has largely examined theoretical benefits,
functional hurdles, and stakeholder interests in isolation, resulting in a lack of a holistic
understanding of the complex dynamics of SBOM usage.
To address this gap, this study systematizes the current state of research through a
structured literature review combined with qualitative data analysis. Based on this, a
comprehensive three-layer model is developed that interlinks the technical lifecycle of
an SBOM, its operational use cases, and the stakeholders involved.
By synthesizing these previously separate perspectives, the thesis establishes a
fundamental understanding of the dynamics of SBOM usage along the software supply
chain. Based on the insights from the model, targeted theoretical and socioeconomic
solutions for future research are derived and recommended to establish SBOM usage
as a long-term value-adding tool in practice.
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