Implementing Cloud Information Systems for Organizational Agility and Competitive Advantage

Abstract

In today's competitive business environment, information systems are not a luxury; rather they are vital for survival. A new generation of ISs has been established on cloud capabilities. Moving toward software as a service is not the goal in a business, and if not implemented properly, competitive advantage may even suffer. Managers and change agents should undertake deep study over SaaS implementation before migration. In this chapter, the main elements and features in which CEOs and IT managers should consider in evaluating the SaaS migration option will be provided, and enterprises may be acquainted with the concept, goals, and theoretical foundations of SaaS as a main cloud-based service in the business environment. On the other hand, businesses should undertake some necessary changes in the operating circumstances which are utilization of a proper and modified business models established over a knowledge base strategic movement. This will lead enterprises to achieve the main goals of migrating to SaaS and cloud platforms (i.e., agility, competitive advantage, and innovation).