Influence of cloud computing technology on performance at International Business Machines Africa

Abstract

Studies have been carried out regarding emerging technologies and performance, but few have been conducted in the IT industry, hence the need to fill the gap within IBM Africa which is an IT firm. Specifically, cloud computing has not been studied within an IT firm. The purpose of the study was to determine the influence of cloud computing technology on performance at IBM Africa. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The study targeted 184 employees from IBM Africa, and a stratified random sampling technique was used. Analysis was done quantitatively by employing inferential and descriptive statistics. Inferential statistics were in the form of linear regression, correlation, ANOVA, and T-test. The study found a weak positive correlation of 0.343 between cloud computing technology and performance. The results of the model summary indicated 10.9% of the variance in performance. The regression coefficient results indicated that cloud computing technology significantly predicted performance indicated by β of 0.348. The ANOVA results indicated that cloud computing technology significantly affected performance indicated by an F-value of 13.827. Perceived benefits that come with cloud computing led to the adoption of cloud computing indicated by a mean of 4.24. Cloud computing enhanced the efficiency of operations indicated by a mean of 4.22 and improved customer relationships indicated by a mean of 4.2. The study concluded that, a positive correlation between cloud computing technology and performance. The top management supported the adoption of cloud computing. There exists a positive correlation between data analytics technology and performance. Big data analytics led to better customer-driven business. There exists a positive correlation between AI technology and performance. The study recommends that the management should continually use cloud computing technology, train all its staff on the use, and come up with measures that may hinder effective use of the technology.