Cloud Adoption Framework for Small and Medium-Size Enterprises (SMEs) in Ethiopia
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Date
2018-11-16
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AAU
Abstract
Cloud Computing (CC) is being accepted as one of the emerging technologies that
create a new opportunity for enterprises with limited resources. It is promised that
cloud can allow firms to reduce costs and to operate more flexibly than with a
traditional Information Technology (IT) infrastructure. However, the promising opportunities
go hand-in-hand with several challenges that can pose risks for a firm
planning to adopt CC. A number of frameworks and models have been developed
by prior studies to support cloud adoption process. However, these models and
frameworks have been formulated to the context of developed countries. Though
worldwide research may be applicable to at least some extent research regarding the
adoption of cloud is not fully generalizable to corporate environment.
In this study, we have proposed a conceptual cloud adoption model grounded by
Technology Organization and Environment (TOE) and Diffusion of Innovation (DOI)
frameworks. According to this model, six variables are influencing the Small and
Medium Enterprises (SMEs)’ decision to adopt CC. To test the proposed model, we
have used dataset collected from 136 SMEs and analyzed using Multiple Linear Regression
(MLR). The analysis revealed that the model is statistically significant [F
(6,129) 73.631 and p <0.001]. Four out of the six determinants were found to be significant
for their influence of cloud adoption. Moreover, a Cloud Deployment Selection
Model (CDSM) has been also proposed to support SMEs’ in predicting an appropriate
cloud model for their business need. The model is generated by refining the MLR
output and using the established principles of Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP).
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Keywords
Cloud Computing, Cloud Adoption, TOE, DOI, Framework, AHP, SMEs