Cloud computing: adoption barriers and enablers for government

Abstract

Cloud computing is not a new technology but rather a new way of delivering computing resources. It promises many widely-publicised benefits - such as cost savings, improved reliability, security improvements, and access to services and data from multiple devices.

The research problem investigated in this research is:

How do perceived barriers and enablers associated with cloud computing affect adoption in the government sector?

Firstly, a literature review was undertaken to answer the question:

What factors should be considered when adopting cloud computing?

The literature on this matter is scant, however key areas were identified as affecting the adoption of cloud computing. These were used to develop a preliminary model of constraints using Lawrence Lessig's (1999) pathetic dot theory in an attempt to illustrate how these areas are constrained by contextual forces. The findings from the literature review also revealed common Information Systems (IS) technology adoption factors. To explain how these adoption factors affect cloud computing decision making, a method was developed to marry Fred Davis' (1987) Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) with Tornatzky and Fleischer's (1990) Technology Organisation Environment (TOE) framework.

Three research issues were then identified:

Research issue 1: What variables from common technology acceptance models exist as cloud computing adoption barriers and enablers in the government sector?

Research issue 2: What, if any, specific cloud computing variables exist in government?

Research issue 3: How do the variables interact with each other in cloud computing adoption decisions?

To investigate these, a mixed-methods approach was used, incorporating qualitative and quantitative analyses. Convergent interviews were held to build on the knowledge base and refine the model of constraints and the extended TAM-TOE cloud computing framework. A survey methodology was then used in conjunction with a further review of literature to gather additional data, which led to further refinement and finalisation of the model of constraints and the extended TAM-TOE framework.

The development and confirmation of the final TAM-TOE extended cloud computing framework is the main contribution of this theory-building research because it is the first rigorous study and knowledge base that can be used as a step towards understanding the important factors influencing cloud computing adoption by government agencies in Australia.