The Effect of Cloud Computing Integration on Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises

Abstract

Cloud computing is becoming an important digital technology for small and
medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and offers access to scalable computing
resources, storage, software applications and digital services without
significant physical investments. The present study aims to examine the
impact of cloud computing integration on the operation efficiency of SMEs.
A mixed-method research design was used to study measurable impact of
cloud adoption and experience of SME managers during adoption. The
owners of SMEs and the IT managers were targeted as the respondents of
the present study. Quantitative data were gathered using a structured
questionnaire which covered the dimensions of cloud computing integration,
cost efficiency, data accessibility, scalability, and operational performance.
Furthermore, a smaller number of managers were interviewed using a semi
structured approach to gain in-depth understanding of the benefits and
implementation challenges for the organisations. Data collection was
quantitative as described by descriptive statistics and regression analysis and
qualitative data was done using thematic analysis of the interviews. This
study aims to see if higher integration with cloud computing is linked with
better operational performance, and to identify the technological and
managerial aspects that have a bearing on the successful implementation of
cloud computing. The results will help to increase the awareness about the
potential of cloud-based technologies in boosting efficiency, flexibility,
accessibility, and scalability in SMEs, along with their challenges in the
areas of security, staff competencies, costs, and readiness.