Date of Conferral

2020

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Information Systems and Technology

Advisor

Elizabeth Thompson

Abstract

Historically, managers of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have had concerns regarding cloud computing and cybersecurity. Their resistance to using cloud computing has influenced their ability to do business effectively and to compete with businesses that use cloud computing. The purposes of this descriptive phenomenological study were to explore the lived experiences and perceptions of SME managers that might influence their decisions to adopt cloud computing. Watson’s concept of resistance to change and Davis, Bagozzi, and Warhaw’s technology acceptance model were the conceptual frameworks that guided this qualitative study. Data collection consisted of conducting 16 semi-structured interviews with open-ended questions with SME managers. Data were coded and compared to identify emerging themes among responses. The findings showed positive cloud-based experiences, such as availability of training, flexibility, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, ease of use, and assurance data security. The findings indicated some negative experiences with cloud-based applications, such as fear of cybercrime, expensive licenses, software complexity, and concern for data security. The results of the study may lead to positive social change by providing a better understanding of the perceptions and experiences that influence SME managers’ decisions regarding the adoption of cloud-based computing technology. Such understanding could be used to provide resources to allay the fears of SMEs and encourage them to be more willing to consider cloud computing.

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