Information security aspects of cloud based ERPs for Maltese SMEs

Abstract

This study is intended to compare people’s perceptions on cloud security with the actual facts regarding the topic. It determines the advantages and disadvantages for companies wishing to adopt cloud based ERP’s. The study analyzes already existing information though a literature review, identifying the main characteristics of cloud technology and ERP systems and focusing on information security aspects of them. The study follows a quantitative methodology where face to face interviews were conducted to gather data from cloud service providers as well as any SME’s using IT services. The research determined barriers and enablers for cloud based ERP’s. The enablers included cost benefits, security, availability and scalability. The barriers identified were reluctance to change, lack of education and lack of knowledge regarding data location. The research also outlines security advantages and disadvantages for cloud based ERP’s with the study concluding that the advantages heavily outweigh the disadvantages. The general finding is that Maltese companies are becoming less reluctant to move to cloud based technologies and this marks a shift from classifying cloud as an emerging technology to a mature and reliable one.