Opportunities of Adopting Cloud Computing in Palestinian Industries

Cloud computing is a term that refers to resources and computer systems available on demand through the network, which can provide a number of computer integrated services without being restricted by local resources.This research attempts to determine the opportunities and strategies of cloud computing adoption in Palestine. A focus group has been conducted in order to accomplish the research objectives. Data were collected from 12 Palestinian firms. Accepted methodology was used to explore the current stage of cloud computing adoption in Palestinian firms and to identify the most important barriers hindering the adoption. The main obstacles that were identified as performing a significance role in Palestinian firms’ adoption of cloud computing services include: lack of top management awareness, insufficient financial resources and budgets, shortage of cloud computing experts and professionals, inadequate network bandwidth, weakness of IT companies capabilities, sensitivity of data, legal and regulatory issues, and compatibility with the existing IT systems. In actuality, these results should present a basis for the Palestinian IT managers in terms of formulating a concrete plans for cloud computing adoption.