| Summary: | The objective of this dissertation is to introduce, discuss, and present critical factors that local SMEs should consider before adopting cloud computing. First, the main cloud computing policies and guidelines currently available are explored. Second, the need for a set of guidelines on cloud computing for local SMEs is established. Finally, a set of guidelines on cloud computing for local SMEs is developed. In discussing the critical factors for consideration by SMEs, data are gathered from three main sources: publications issued by various national ICT authorities, documents published by professional ICT associations, and whitepapers made available by ICT industry vendors. Research results confirmed that a number of cloud computing guidelines are already available in the public domain; however, those crafted specifically for SMEs are far and few. As the single most arguably attractive factor is cost saving for SMEs, there is an urgent need for a set of cloud computing guidelines for SMEs on cloud adoption to be established. Finally, based on the characteristics of local SMEs, the dissertation developed a set of cloud computing guidelines that highlight potential benefits, downsides, and recommendations.
|
|---|