Towards the Development of a Comprehensive Theoretical Model for Examining the Cloud Computing Adoption at the Organizational Level

Abstract

Cloud computing (CC) is a new computing paradigm in higher educational institutions (HEIs). CC allows educational services to be delivered at anytime anywhere settings. Despite all its advantages, the adoption of CC in general and cloud-based education as a service (CEaaS) in specific is still not yet clearly understood in HEIs. Besides, there is a scarce of knowledge regarding the adoption of CC at the organizational level. Therefore, this study aims to develop a comprehensive theoretical model through the integration of four dominant theories, including the technology-organization-environment framework (TOE), fit viability model (FVM), diffusion of innovations (DOI), and institutional theory (INT). The primary purpose of the developed model is to understand the factors affecting the CC adoption at the organizational level of HEIs. It is believed that the developed model would assist the decision-makers in HEIs to make informed decisions concerning the future implementation of CC. Theoretical contributions and practical implications were also discussed.