Successful Introduction of Cloud Computing into your Organization: A Six-Step Conceptual Model

Abstract

Cloud computing is the fastest area of application within the information systems field. The adoption of cloud computing by businesses, government agencies, and academic institutions is on the rise. Cloud computing platforms could reduce cost, offer scale, and increase information systems responsiveness for those companies that are adopting it properly. However, still many decision makers do not really know what exactly cloud computing is, its unique capabilities, and how it may increase the efficiency and effectiveness of IT services. Also cloud computing may mean different things to different people. This paper first examines different applications within the cloud computing domain and then explores the existing applications, trends, opportunities, and challenges in cloud computing environment and presents a series of guidelines summarized under a six step conceptual model. Managers and IT personnel should benefit from following these steps by being able to choose the right application for their organizations and be able to minimize the security and privacy concerns associated with the introduction of this fast growing technology.