An investigation of the challenges and issues influencing the adoption of cloud computing in Australian regional municipal governments

New developments in information technology (IT) provide opportunities for a better quality of life through benefits such as increased comfort and convenience. Compared to dedicated infrastructures such as cluster and grid computing, cloud computing can better cater to users' needs by increasing effectiveness, efficiency and functionality at a potentially lower cost. This research aims to provide insights into the challenges and issues faced by implementers and users of cloud computing by comparing the extant literature about this issue with current insights provided by IT managers. A systematic literature review and in-depth interviews with IT managers in local government councils were conducted for this research. The research indicated that the factors in the extant literature were supported; additional challenges and issues emerged which are related to effective network, data storage location, availability of different service providers, policy makers, a limited understanding of the cloud and business transformation. The findings of this research are expected to assist managers to evaluate possible adoption and increase their awareness about challenges and issues that influence the cloud adoption when planning to adopt it.