| dc.description.abstract | Nowadays, digital technologies are transforming societal and business environments. One of these technologies, cloud computing technology, has gained much popularity and attention in recent years, and is about to radically reshape the manufacturing industry. This research aimed to increase knowledge on the process around cloud computing adoption, implementation, and usage in Dutch manufacturing firms. More specifically, adoption factors, challenges, and corresponding solutions were identified.
For this purpose, an inductive and qualitative research approach was pursued. Twenty semi-structured interviews were conducted with employees from nineteen different manufacturing firms and one firm that helps to solve issues related to information technology within the manufacturing sector. Interview data were complemented by secondary data from documents and articles. The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology was used as a theoretical lens and extended by adding adoption factors, challenges and solutions, making the adapted model particularly suitable for the process around cloud computing technology adoption, implementation and usage.
According to the interviewees, the most important adoption factors relate to relief; usability; location independence; data accessibility, exchangeability, safety and security; productivity; monetary benefits; flexibility; integration; extra services and opportunities; market pull; technology push; internal push from the IT department; and the coronavirus. The frequently mentioned challenges are resistance from the workforce; lack of knowledge and people with the right skills; data accessibility, safety and security; dependence on cloud suppliers; monetary detriments; integration; performance; governance; internet connection; and challenges abroad. Finally, some solutions were mentioned, such as a hybrid cloud; agreements on accessibility, ownership, geo-redundancy and geographical place of data; involve employees and provide them with training, workshops and tests; replace employees where necessary; create a network by visiting conferences; cooperate with third parties such as consultants and startups; bidirectional feedback with relevant parties; let the IT department guide the technology related processes; create a future vision with strategy (e.g. exit or second mover strategy); create a redundant internet connection; and stay close to the basics.
These results function as a guideline which might help managers that are currently trying to implement cloud computing technology, or considering to do so in the future. Such a guideline increases preparedness and therefore helps managers to avoid or better deal with major (unexpected) issues. Subsequently, this decreases effort and costs associated with the implementation of such a complex technology in firms. | |
