Enhancing the Adoption and Use of Cloud-Based Services by Universities in Developing Countries

Abstract

In the modern world, the adoption and use of cloud Computing are ubiquitous. Cloud Computing services are continuously playing a vital role in present Information Technology development paradigms. It is beyond reproach that aspects of cloud computing exist in almost all forms of manufacturing and service industries. Whereas the three Cloud Computing service models are vital, the most widely used service model is Software as a Service. In this service model, applications are outsourced under tenancy agreements by third parties known as Cloud Service Providers. Microsoft, Google, and IBM are the major players in the provision of Cloud Computing Services. Organizations migrating to the cloud operational model utilize Cloud Computing Services to gain a competitive edge, minimize operational costs, and utilize economies of scale. Unfortunately, the use of cloud computing service models in the educational sector in developing countries has not reached the expected capacity. Cloud Computing is still under-utilized by learning institutions in developing countries due to lack of infrastructure, lack of skillset, and lack of the equipment necessary for service operations. Most academicians in developing countries are unaware that the benefits of cloud services utilization education outweigh factors preventing its adoption. This research provides insight into the benefits of cloud computing services adoption in the educational sector and angles it as the perfect bridge in helping the achievement of academic goals. The paper seeks to convince academicians in developing countries that cloud computing services adoption can enhance the provision of cheap but quality education. If after reading through this paper, a scholar is compelled to incorporate cloud-based service design in their student’s learning paradigms, then, this paper would have achieved its objectives.