Strategic Cloud Computing Framework: South African Context

10 pages•Published: October 25, 2019

Abstract

Cloud computing is internet-based computing in which users can share information technology resources in a secure and efficient system [1]. South African organisations by adopting and using technology such as cloud computing can leverage on its ability to offer a flexible resource that is scalable to the needs of an organization, which are accessible from anywhere at any time. The main goal of this study was to conceptualise a strategic cloud computing framework in the context of South African information technology professions. This study used stakeholder theory, contingency theory, and technology-organization-environment theory as research lenses. The study used interpretivism research philosophy. The primary data was collected using semi-structured interviews from 21 individual IT professionals. The key findings are that IT professionals recognized the importance and benefits of cloud computing. In addition, stakeholders have an influence on cloud computing use and adoption. The IT strategy needs to be aligned with the business strategy for cloud computing to be smoothly adopted and use in an organisation. The study concluded that there is a need for a strategic cloud computing framework that would help to strategically adopt and use cloud computing in a uniformed and coordinated manner in South African organisations.

Keyphrases: Cloud Computing, Contingencies theory, South African IT professional, stakeholder theory, Technology-organization-environment Theory

In: Kennedy Njenga (editor). Proceedings of 4th International Conference on the Internet, Cyber Security and Information Systems 2019, vol 12, pages 372--381

Links:	https://easychair.org/publications/paper/8MgN
	https://doi.org/10.29007/p7br