Diffusion and Acceptance of Cloud Computing in SMEs: Towards a Valence Model of Relevant Factors

Cloud Computing provides great opportunities especially for companies within the SME segment. This is why Cloud Service Providers (CSPs) are increasing their efforts to make their infrastructure accessible for small companies to help them compensate the lack of their own IT infrastructure. But nevertheless a lot of companies - especially smaller ones - are not yet convinced of the benefits of cloud services. This paper explores factors that influence the diffusion and acceptance of Cloud Computing among SMEs. On the basis of theoretical models and qualitative interviews a valence model of relevant factors was developed. This model provides individual, organizational, technical, and environmental factors influencing the diffusion and acceptance of Cloud Computing among SMEs in a positive or negative way.