Cloud Opportunity and Business Skill Deficits

Cloud computing (cloud) has offered cost effective business opportunities by providing flexible and on- demand IT services supply.  Businesses are offered the opportunity to purchase the IT services (computing, storage, software, etc.) as required rather than retaining traditional IT assets and infrastructures. The realization of value from the opportunity has been challenging for enterprises disentangling from former IT services supply arrangements, and all businesses in gaining the necessary skill sets for optimal use. The design optimisation for cloud service use has complex new value chains and business models that require new skills and knowledge for successful performance. In this research, we asked: What are the impacts of cloud computing on the required business IT skill sets?  A sample of 20 industry consultants were interviewed and the data thematically analysed in NVIVO to answer the research question. It was found that some skill sets have become irrelevant to business performance and other new ones are in demand. Skills deficits were particularly apparent in the security area where privacy and data protection are a concern. It also reflected the challenges and changing nature of cloud security that requires new knowledge and techniques.