Cloud computing adoption guidelines in a South African Higher Education Institution

Abstract

Global technology is advancing rapidly, particularly within higher education institutions, where remaining competitive in teaching and learning is paramount. Embracing cloud computing offers numerous benefits that higher education institutions could leverage to enhance their operations. However, this requires a paradigm shift in one’s approach. While many higher education institutions aim to adopt cloud computing, their focus tends to centre on Software as a Service initially, overlooking the broader potential benefits. Cloud computing offers scalability solutions that could drive down costs and increase flexibility, allowing higher education institutions to concentrate on their core educational missions. Nevertheless, challenges persist, hindering widespread adoption, especially among smaller institutions. The primary objective of this study focused on cloud computing adoption guidelines in a South African higher education institution. Through comprehensive research, various barriers to adoption have been identified. Moreover, this study sheds light on the benefits of cloud computing, particularly evident during times such as the COVID-19 pandemic, where it enhanced teaching and learning experiences significantly. Some higher education institutions have already embraced certain cloud computing services, such as Microsoft applications through Software as a Service models. Employing an interpretative research approach, this study engaged information technology technical staff and information technology governance within a higher education institution. Data collection was primarily conducted through interviews, with content analysis serving as the primary research method. Utilising a case study approach, the interview questions were informed by an extensive literature review, structuring the investigation process. Qualitative methods were used to gather insights from information technology governance and information technology technical staff, with data being carefully analysed, coded, and categorised to identify emerging patterns and themes. Through this process, this study found barriers and challenges confirmed by extant literature on cloud computing. The development of cloud computing guidelines aimed at facilitating cloud computing adoption in South African higher education institution. The key findings of this study outline the guidelines for cloud computing adoption in higher education institutions. The guidelines incorporate participant insights on optimizing cloud computing adoption. Factors extracted including technological, environmental, governance, financial, organizational factors, and challenges, guide the guidelines' formulation. Recommendations include evaluating data protection, upskilling information technology staff, prioritizing security, aligning with higher education institution policies, awareness on cloud ii computing benefits, assessing financial impacts, fostering a learning culture, and addressing challenges such as trust, costs and support. It emphasizes the importance of service level agreement with service providers, vendor selection, intellectual property considerations, and staff training to ensure successful cloud computing adoption aligned with higher education institution digital migration strategies.