Cloud Computing Adoption Among Small and Medium Entrprises (SMEs) in Kuwait: a Preliminary Qualitative Study

Cloud Computing (CC) is a contemporary model that offers organizations access to advanced computing services via the Internet, with payment based on usage and on-demand availability. Numerous research studies have established that CC enables Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to leverage modern information technology services at minimal costs, thereby positively impacting their business performance. SMEs play a crucial role in contributing to the economic growth of countries. However, there is a lack of published studies on the status of Cloud Computing Adoption (CCA) among SMEs in Kuwait. A preliminary study was undertaken to examine the state of CCA among Kuwaiti SMEs and the determining factors in the process of CCA in Kuwait. The study revealed a low level of CCA among Kuwaiti SMEs, as well as a low level of Intention to Adopt Cloud Computing (IACC) among those SMEs not currently utilizing any CC services. The determining factors in the CCA process among Kuwaiti SMEs were identified as perceived benefits, security concerns, competitive pressure, trading partner pressure, top management support, social influence, innovativeness, and risk-taking. Consequently, the preliminary study recommended that further in-depth studies be conducted to gain a better understanding of the issues affecting the IACC among SMEs in Kuwait.