Enablers and Barriers of Cloud Adoption among Small and Medium Enterprises in Tamil Nadu

Cloud computing has the potential to speed up IT adoption among SMEs in developing economies. Though the benefits of cloud computing is very appealing, the level of cloud adoption is still low among SMEs. This research aims to identify the key enablers, barriers and other factors that influence cloud adoption among SMEs in Tamil Nadu by conducting empirical investigations. We have used TOE framework to identify and capture the factors that affect technology adoption. We highlight cost benefits of using cloud infrastructure, scalability and agility of cloud services as the key enablers of cloud adoption. Broadband availability, high bandwidth cost and vendor lock-in are the main barrier for cloud adoption. Compatibility to existing system, complexity of the migration process, top management support, government policies and competitor pressure are the major organizational factors affecting cloud adoption among SMEs in Tamil Nadu. This study is part of a larger study which aims to develop a cloud migration decision support system (CMDSS) for SMEs in Tamil Nadu.