Determinant factors of cloud-sourcing decisions: reflecting on the IT outsourcing literature in the era of cloud computing

2016 | Journal of Information Technology | Citations: 0

Authors: Schneider, Stephan; Sunyaev, Ali

Abstract: Cloud computing (CC) is an emerging form of IT outsourcing (ITO) that requires o ... Expand

Abstract: Cloud computing (CC) is an emerging form of IT outsourcing (ITO) that requires organizations to adjust their sourcing processes. Although ITO researchers have established an extensive knowledge base on the determinant factors that drive sourcing decisions from various theoretical perspectives, the majority of research on cloud-sourcing decisions focuses on technological aspects. We reviewed the CC and ITO literature and systematically coded the determinant factors that influence sourcing decisions. We show that most determinant factors of sourcing decisions in the ITO context remain valid for the CC context. However, the findings for some factors (i.e., asset specificity, client firm IT capabilities, client firm size, institutional influences, and uncertainty) are inconclusive for the CC and ITO contexts. We discuss how the peculiarities of CC can explain these inconclusive findings. Our results indicate that CC researchers should draw from research on ITO decision making but re-examine ITO concepts in the light of the peculiarities of CC, such as the differences between software and infrastructure services, the self-service procurement of cloud services, or the evolving role of IT departments. By summarizing determinant factors of cloud-sourcing decisions for consideration in future research, we contribute to the development of endogenous theories in the IS domain. Collapse

Topics: IS sourcing cloud computing asset specificity software as a service outsourcing

Methods: literature study literature sample structured literature research mixed method cross sectional research

Theories: organizational theory lemon market theory

How to Attract and Retain Readers in Enterprise Blogging?

2014 | Information Systems Research | Citations: 75

Authors: Singh, Param Vir; Sahoo, Nachiketa; Mukhopadhyay, Tridas

Abstract: We investigate the dynamics of blog reading behavior of employees in an enterpri ... Expand

Abstract: We investigate the dynamics of blog reading behavior of employees in an enterprise blogosphere. A dynamic model is developed and calibrated using longitudinal data from a Fortune 1,000 IT services firm. Our modeling framework allows us to segregate the impact of textual characteristics (sentiment and quality) of a post on attracting readers from retaining them. We find that the textual characteristics that appeal to the sentiment of the reader affect both reader attraction and retention. However, textual characteristics that reflect only the quality of the posts affect only reader retention. We identify a variety-seeking behavior of blog readers where they dynamically switch from reading on one set of topics to another. The modeling framework and findings of this study highlight opportunities for the firm to influence blog-reading behavior of its employees to align it with its goals. Overall, this study contributes to improved understanding of reading behavior of individuals in communities formed around user generated content. Keywords: blogs; employee blogs; enterprise 2.0; blog reading; dynamic models; user generated content; text mining Collapse

Topics: blog user-generated content individual characteristic business process outsourcing logistics management

Methods: descriptive statistic instrumental variables estimation cross sectional research longitudinal research regression analysis method