Business-driven approach to cloud computing adoption by small businesses

Abstract

In the adoption of technology, there is the need for the alignment of the objectives of the business’s information technology (IT) strategy with the business strategy to ensure effectiveness and overall business performance. This study sought to investigate the effect of adoption factors on a business’s decision to use cloud computing. The study contributes methodologically through the use of interpretivism and an evidence-based approach to thematic analysis, thereby allowing the researcher to gain a deep understanding into how key stakeholders view cloud computing adoption. A theoretical contribution was also made in the form of the adoption of related issues that illustrate how the qualitative empirical data influence the concepts inherent in the cloud computing adoption model. These contributions show the need for critical adoption factors that would address the various technical and social considerations that are necessary to create conditions conducive for encouraging the adoption of cloud computing by small businesses. The study concludes with the implementation of adoption interventions such as communication and power generating infrastructure, regulatory procedures and technical education to ensure successful adoption.