Content area
Purpose
>This study aims to find out the current state of cloud-based library services in selected academic and special libraries of Bangladesh. The study also explored some pertinent problems faced by librarians in implementing this new technology in library services and activities.
Design/methodology/approach
>The study used a mixed-method approach with a range of exploratory research questions. Purposive sampling technique was used to select the libraries. A set of structured questionnaires was designed to address the objectives of the study. For in-depth analysis, short interviews with the library professionals were also conducted.
Findings
>Only four libraries made use of cloud computing services, and they maintained a partial cloud environment. Most responding librarians treated cloud computing as a dynamically scalable infrastructure for applications, data and file storage with charges imposed. Most of the respondents (90%) preferred cloud computing for “Software-as-a-Service”. Due to the high subscription rate (70%), unreliable online payment system (60%) and trading system (60%), librarians treated cloud computing as a burden in providing library services and activities. Respondent librarians were also interviewed for exploring their views on cloud computing in library services. For adopting cloud computing in library services of Bangladesh, “sufficient financial allocation” and “organizations’ positive decision over cloud computing” were mentioned as challenging tasks by the respondents. Finally, the study suggested some solutions to the problem and proposed a model for a cloud-based library system that can be replicated in libraries and information centres of other developing countries too.
Originality/value
>This paper encapsulates the overall scenario of cloud-based library activities and services in Bangladesh. Based on the available secondary sources, no empirical study on librarians’ perceptions of cloud computing in library services of Bangladesh has been carried out before this study. Thus, this is perhaps the first attempt to quantitatively measure cloud-based services in Bangladeshi libraries.
1. Introduction
In recent years, information and communication technology (ICT) has become a topic of great interest in Bangladesh. With the vision of “Digital Bangladesh”, the Government of Bangladesh (GoB) has taken various initiatives to digitize the activities of different sectors. Therefore, the GoB, with the help of China, is planning to switch to “G-Cloud” (government-based cloud technology for e-governance) to store electronic information resources required by larger cross-sections of people. Wide ranging activities are being undertaken in different sectors, such as e-commerce, e-governance, networking, internet, Web browsing and applications and multimedia services, which are expected to bring significant changes in the ICT sector in Bangladesh (Kamal, 2014). In this situation, cloud computing will become a critical concept for Digital Bangladesh. Cloud computing is also a recent development in the area of ICT across the globe. It is a new computing idea that came into spotlight in 2006 and is supposed to be the “developmental outcome” of virtualization, network storage and load balancing; and is also an advancement issue for parallel computing, utility computing, grid computing and distributed computing. Cloud computing permits users to influentially contribute through hardware, software and data resources where the payment would be as per the client’s use. Cloud computing denotes both application services through the internet, the hardware and system software in the service centres that offer those services (Armbrust et al., 2010). Although it means different things to different people, in general, cloud computing ensures flawless service through the internet without requiring much hardware, software or customization process (Woodford, 2015). It ensures remote services regarding information, software, storage and computation. It reduces the extra use of technology, cost and ownership but enhances the rapidity of ICT services for distant users (Vouk, 2008). Cloud computing has established the foundation for the application of other technologies as well. In reality, cloud computing has paved the way for growth and development of technologies like big data management, the Internet of Things and advanced corporate analytics (Yao and Azma, 2021).
Cloud computing is now being used as an emerging technology in the library and information sector. Modern libraries and information centres use this technology in their systems to boost productivity, efficiency and competitiveness by speeding up the working process (Kumar, 2021). Cloud storage is the library’s latest technology, where the end-user can conveniently access the library at remote locations (Sinha, 2016). Cloud computing is a platform solution for handling all library systems, including circulation, cataloguing, acquisitions, serials, wireless access points, digital tools, internet connectivity, thin client architecture, system data analytics and digital librarians (Cao, 2020; Jalamneh and Khder, 2021). Libraries all over the world have started using cloud computing to handle e-resource usage, hosting Web applications, cataloguing online public access, managing digital libraries, hosting various statistical tools and data sets, etc. (Sankar and Sarangapani, 2019). Sorensen and Glassman (2011, as cited in Yuvaraj, 2015a) stated that cloud-based applications offer libraries new ways to present information or offer services that were previously unaffordable or unavailable. As a service-oriented organization, the library and information centres play their roles in procuring information, organizing it and disseminating the right information to the right users at the right time. Therefore, it must adopt the cloud computing technology as early as possible because most of the popular software and hardware vendors, such as Microsoft, Google, Wipro, Infosys and TCS have already entered into cloud computing (Mangai et al., n.d.). Many library patrons have already started using file-hosting-based cloud products, such as Google Drive (Google LLC), Dropbox (Dropbox, Inc.), iCloud (Apple Inc.) and OneDrive (Microsoft) (Hoy, 2012, as cited in Yuvaraj, 2015a). It is all about storing data on the cloud rather than on local systems like an external hard drive, a compact disc and others (Shibambu and Marutha, 2022).
In India, LIBSYS (a prominent library management system) has developed a shared cloud infrastructure called LSCloud, which uses a pay-per-use basis. It allows the “LIBSYS” user to manage the account (administrator and patron) and have access to library resources from any location. LIBSYS also created “LSEase” for a tiny library, which uses a cloud-based technique to improve library operations (LIBSYS, n.d.; Sarkar and Shaw, 2021). The best example of cloud computing is Online Computer Library Centre (OCLC), as it has been sharing data from libraries for many years. OCLC also provides several library activities and services, such as acquisition, cataloguing and circulation. OCLC’s “WorldCat” is available on the Web for accessing the catalogue. Integration of cloud computing with digital libraries, open sources, library websites and usage of Web 2.0 and social networks will surely improve libraries for the next-generation. According to Sarkar and Shaw (2021), OCLC uses WorldShare Management Services (WMS), a cloud-based library administration platform that provides an integrated approach for the proper management of physical and electronic resources on a unified platform. WMS unifies all collaborating libraries into the LIBROS consortium (a university of New Mexico-based consortium), allowing for more control over policies, functions and services.
Though cloud computing is becoming a critical component in library modernization (Kumar, 2021), it is not very popular in the context of Bangladeshi libraries. The notion of implementing cloud computing in libraries has received little attention owing to some serious problems like personal information stealing, abrupt expiration, a lack of international regulation, an immature digital culture, financial difficulties and minimal control over data, applications, platforms and infrastructure. Furthermore, as of now, there are only a few institutes that have a full cloud environment in their libraries, which might serve as a model for others. To address this issue, the government and the libraries may carry out a collaborative project entitled “model cloud library environment”. This initiative will focus on creating a comprehensive cloud computing environment in the libraries and fostering collaboration among all the libraries, which will act as a national consortium. The government should also create policies for supporting this endeavour. As of today’s new normal situation in the COVID-19 pandemic, it is really important to provide complete online and interactive library services effectively to the library patrons to achieve the mission and vision of the library.
2. Literature review
Cloud computing (CC), an advanced phase of ICT (Rahoo and Khan, 2020), often known as “The cloud” (Romero, 2012), is recognized as the fifth stage in the evolution of library technology (Liu and Cai, 2013), gaining popularity not only in libraries but also in other industries (Han, 2013). Hoy (2012) maintained that the concept of cloud computing is the same as the age of computer, yet the idea is still an ambiguous one (as cited in Delozier, 2013). It means easy and quick access to ICT resources from a greatly expandable platform via the internet without having much ICT knowledge (Romero, 2012). Liu and Cai (2013) described the concept of cloud computing simply as the utilization of distant computing resources via the internet. The definition of CC by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is a working one: “a model for enabling ubiquitous, convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources” (Mell and Grance, 2011). The NIST identified five characteristics of cloud computing:
on-demand self-service, i.e. running without human intervention;
broad network access, i.e. resources can be accessed from a variety of devices via the internet;
resource pooling, i.e. shared resources across multiple data centres;
fast elasticity, i.e. expandability of computing resources; and
metered service, in which the fee is calculated based on consumption (Mell and Grance, 2011; Hoy, 2012).
Based on the definition of CC by NIST, Mell and Grance (2011) identified three service models: Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS). “Private Cloud”, “Community Cloud”, “Public Cloud” and “Hybrid Cloud” are identified as four deployment models of cloud computing (as cited in Romero, 2012; Liu and Cai, 2013).
Cloud computing has several reported advantages in general, like saving time, reducing personnel and eliminating local hardware (Kattimani, 2016), cost reduction, lower risk in investment, greater security and accessibility (Romero, 2012), dynamic customer support service and increased storage (Irenoa et al., 2018), active updating for applications (Sultan, 2011), dynamic scalability (Hoy, 2012), device-independence (Gutierrez et al., 2015) and platform-independence (Yuvaraj, 2016). Cloud computing can also be beneficial for libraries as it reduces the cost of hardware and software, overall maintenance, local technical needs and high electricity consumption (Abidi and Abidi, 2012; Liu and Cai, 2013; Pal, 2013; Gutierrez et al., 2015). By using cloud computing, libraries may save considerable amounts of energy and get access to a wide range of information resources, as well as improve library service optimization (Wada, 2018). Libraries can also use cloud technologies to provide onsite services to remote users. Furthermore, those who are used to working in information management will be able to perform other responsibilities of a library after the arrival of the cloud. CC can help libraries perform their activities more efficiently and effectively at a minimum cost. At the same time, the libraries will be free from the fear of losing data as the responsibility of data security is transferred to the service providers of the cloud (Hastings, 2009; Han, 2011; Delozier, 2013). Because of the many service security levels, library professionals use cloud computing technologies in their day-to-day operations and promote adopting cloud computing to improve library services (Esmaeili et al., 2021).
The incorporation of cloud technology into libraries has brought about a drastic change in the storing, disseminating and retrieval of information. As a result, on-premise ICT resources have also been observed to undergo a revolutionary shift due to the application of cloud technologies. This radical change has also affected the three major areas of activities, i.e. acquisition, processing and circulation that will empower the libraries for better utilization of their resources, infrastructure and technical personnel. The integration of hardware, software and storage technologies play a pivotal role in introducing cloud technologies in libraries. Cloud-based library materials may be accessible from anywhere, at any time, and on any device, which is one of the most enticing aspects of cloud technology (Rodrigues and Godoy Viera, 2018; Shaw and De Sarkar, 2021).
Several service providers commercially offer their products while very few of them are capable of providing modern information management solutions. In libraries, the SaaS model can be used in both user interface and back-end information management. End-users of the library can use the applications on the cloud using a Web browser or API, while cloud-service providers control the whole infrastructure. The Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) was used earlier as the library-user interface and was replaced by the discovery tool, whereas back-end information management is currently known as the next-generation library management service. Popular examples of SaaS-based user interfaces include Primo, WorldCat Local, EBSCO Discovery Service and Summon, etc., and SaaS-based back-end information management services include Alma, Sierra, Kuali OLE and WorldShare Management System, etc. (Liu and Cai, 2013; Han, 2013). Mell and Grance (2011) said that PaaS can be used in deploying applications to users on the infrastructure and environment (platform) of the providers. End-users can control their software but not the platform of the providers. Google App Engine is a popular example of PaaS. In the IaaS model, the users have full control and management over their resources (software, network, storage, etc.), while the cloud computing service providers manage the infrastructure only. Amazon, Google and Microsoft are the popular examples of IaaS providers (as cited in Han, 2013). A study reveals that most of the libraries that are interested in cloud computing have been using SaaS services for office applications, Google Docs, cloud storage and IaaS services for content delivery, such as websites, repositories and backups since 2009 (Han, 2013).
The use of cloud computing has not been as widespread in libraries and information centres as in the business environment. Esmaeili et al. (2021) stated that the number of research works addressing the library domain in the cloud environment is quite low. The same view was expressed by Khozani et al. (2021). Disbelief in the cloud service provider is one of the significant factors for its getting less popularity in this field (Romero, 2012). Dutta et al. (2013), Brender and Markov (2013), Romero (2012) and Sahu (2015) identified several drawbacks, such as fear of losing data, theft and confidentiality issues, questions of data ownership and loss of governance, the country-based variations in privacy and protection laws and over-dependency of the providers. The ubiquitous access (Delozier, 2013) of library-users in the cloud environment can also increase the potential risks of loss of anonymity and authenticity. Another problem with cloud computing in libraries is cloud security and the reliability of service providers (Hussaini et al., 2017; Rodrigues and Godoy Viera, 2018). Threats to cloud security posed by the service provider or by end-users can be grouped as data infringement, data demise, account or service traffic hijacking, unsafe API, suspicious beta testing app, misuse of cloud computing service, etc. (Lukan, 2014; Yuvaraj, 2015b).
Adjusting cloud computing to the existing functions and activities of libraries will be one of the most challenging tasks for librarians. The librarian must be aware of a few issues, like connection to the internet, interoperability, access to data, confidentiality, safety, robustness, etc. Librarians, therefore, must upgrade their knowledge and skills to adopt these technological evolutions in libraries (Liu and Cai, 2013). In addition, librarians will have to evaluate cloud-computing technology while taking into account the security risks involved. Besides, raising awareness regarding the use of cloud-computing services is also important. Cloud computing service providers must provide space for clients to be educated and sensitized about the benefits of cloud computing for library service delivery. It will assist librarians in comprehending the significance of this technical advancement in their day-to-day work (Zubairu et al., 2021).
A number of factors should be considered while negotiating an open-source cloud solution (Romero, 2012), which are described below:
an exhaustive study of all applications currently used in the library that affect less sensitive on users’ sensitive data;
full awareness of the risks covered in the agreement;
the flexibility of withdrawing from the agreement;
ability to retrieve useful library-data;
stable and reliable internet service;
easy, attractive and clear payment method; and
flexible remote access policies, etc.
A service-level contract with the providers states that the scope of catastrophic activities is a vital issue (Wasike and Njoroge, 2015). It is commonly the responsibility of the librarian to check the reliability of the contract with the providers (Rodrigues and Godoy Viera, 2018). Han (2013) suggested a few factors to be considered before the libraries implement the cloud environment, such as content, users, skills, costs, security and privacy. He preferred encryption to secure sensitive data. The SaaS model is better for maintaining daily office routines. Technical skills of librarians are required for integration, although the system’s administrative skills are not essential in this case. The total cost of ownership should be calculated before going to the final contract with the service providers. Aharony (2015) looked at how information professionals behave when it comes to cloud computing. Several technology acceptance model (TAM) elements, human attributes and computer competence all have an impact on cloud computing usage. She assumed that information professionals would use cloud computing if they believed it would be simple to implement and if they considered themselves creative. Personality traits have a significant impact on respondents’ behavioural intentions to adopt cloud computing. Information professionals who have failed in the past or worry about failing in the future when dealing with emerging technology are less likely to embrace cloud computing. Personality traits are important when it comes to adopting new technologies, and information organization directors should be aware of individual differences if they wish to implement new technological tools into their enterprises.
Many studies have mostly focused on theoretical aspects, such as the definition, kinds, advantages, hazards and obstacles that librarians and libraries face in adopting cloud computing. As a result, there are few practical jobs in this sector, indicating the infancy of the field. In general, most studies have shown that cloud computing technology may have a significant influence on the future of libraries, and its adoption will provide libraries with several benefits (Khozani et al., 2021). There have been only a handful of studies that have focused on librarians’ attitudes and perceptions of cloud computing and its usage in libraries. A few studies have investigated librarians’ and library staff’s knowledge of cloud computing and its application in Indian libraries (Mahalakshmi and Sornam, 2012; Yuvaraj, 2013; Majhi et al., 2015; Sudhier and Seena, 2018). The findings of their study revealed that librarians are familiar with cloud computing and its uses in libraries. Rahoo and Khan (2020) investigated the use and knowledge of cloud computing applications among library professionals in the Sindh region of Pakistan. The findings of their investigation revealed that library professionals’ understanding and awareness of cloud computing applications are limited. In the University of Dar es Salaam library, Idhalama and Fidelis (2020) explored librarians’ perceptions and attitudes regarding cloud computing. The researchers discovered that librarians at the University of Dar es Salaam are familiar with cloud computing technology, have a good attitude towards it, and are receptive to it, among other things.
Various research studies show that many libraries throughout the world have already incorporated cloud computing in library operations (Esmaeili et al., 2021). Professionals in South Asian libraries have an intermediary understanding of cloud-based library management systems. Roy and Islam (2021) conducted a survey of South Asian libraries, and they discovered that cloud-based library systems are not extensively used for a variety of reasons, including unconsciousness and ignorance, insufficient knowledge, insecurity, lack of responsiveness, and so on. They further suggest that adopting proper strategies and policies, as well as building a South Asian cloud network, might help to improve the region’s predicament.
Several studies have been conducted in Nigerian libraries to assess cloud computing awareness and adoption (Aiyebelehin et al., 2020; Zubairu et al., 2021; Njoku and Ken-Agbiriogu, 2021). They investigated the extent of the library staff’s awareness of cloud computing and how they used it. According to their results, the majority of librarians are aware of cloud computing and use it mostly for personal rather than professional purposes. The majority of libraries provide cloud-based email and social networking services. In a study on Nigerian academic libraries (Akporhonor and Ekhaguosa, 2021), it is found that librarians have a basic understanding of how to access, store and share cloud computing e-resources. Cloud applications are used to access online databases provided by Nigerian academic libraries that span across disciplines. Large union catalogues, such as the OCLC and Worldcat, might also be considered cloud applications in Nigeria. Another example of cloud computing technology used in most university libraries in Nigeria is the OPAC (Adetoro and Ayeni, 2020). Despite the fact that African university libraries still face the same challenges as South Asian libraries, such as a lack of funding, human resources, skill training and retention, internet connectivity, telecommunication infrastructure and copyright issues (Akporhonor and Ekhaguosa, 2021). Furthermore, data security is a serious problem for Nigerian libraries and information centres. Librarians continue to be concerned about the hazards of transferring their data to a third-party server (Adetoro and Ayeni, 2020).
Shibambu and Marutha (2022) explored the practice of cloud-based digital record management. The state of cloud storage in South African libraries, they found, is still in its infancy. They suggested that a records management directorate be established to supervise cloud records management. Salih (2020) investigated the technological skills of Iraqi university librarians, which enabled them to use cloud computing. The result of the study revealed that most library workers in Iraqi universities are familiar with the basics of cloud technology and perceive it as a Web-based technology. They feel that cloud technology is the most cost-effective option for libraries. Aydin (2021) recognized the current conditions and issues with the cloud service paradigm in Turkish universities. He claimed that half of Turkey’s universities lacked sufficient expertise in cloud computing and lacked cloud architecture. Although the majority of Turkish universities lacked sufficient expertise in cloud services and cloud applications, the majority believed cloud technology would play a significant role in the future. The most significant barriers to cloud computing in their institutions were data security and confidentiality, as well as reliance on the cloud service provider.
Khatib and Opulencia (2015) investigated library staff’s perspectives on cloud computing and the influence of cloud computing on libraries in the United Arab Emirates. They found that 83.3% of library personnel were aware of cloud computing, while 55.6% of the surveyed library personnel had used cloud computing. Khozani et al. (2021) explored librarians’ perceptions of the amount of their acquaintance, application and expertise with cloud computing in Iranian academic libraries. According to their findings, librarians’ knowledge of cloud computing is limited, but their use of cloud computing services is moderate.
In Bangladesh, there has been some research on different aspects of cloud computing, but no empirical study on the use of cloud computing in library services has yet been conducted. Some of the research focused on public university students’ perceptions and use of cloud computing services (Atikuzzaman and Islam, 2021; Islam, 2019), cloud computing in education (Islam et al., 2017a, 2017b), cloud technology in Bangladesh (Islam et al., 2015), and so on. Only one research on cloud computing usage in library services was discovered in Bangladesh. Sakib et al. (2019) provide a brief overview of the cloud computing idea in the digital world. It is a review-based study that is entirely dependent on secondary sources. Furthermore, without conducting a practical survey in Bangladeshi libraries, this theoretical study examined the application of cloud computing. The study failed to address the practical reasons for employing cloud technology in different types of libraries as well as the real-world challenges that Bangladeshi librarians face while using cloud technology. Furthermore, they did not offer any additional suggestions for overcoming the obstacles in the context of Bangladeshi libraries without mentioning the government’s participation. Therefore, it can be claimed that no empirical study on cloud computing applications in library services of Bangladesh has been conducted before this research.
3. Objectives of the study
With unprecedented technological changes in recent years, the phenomenon of adopting cloud computing has become a crucial issue in different sectors including the library sector. The primary goal of this study is to investigate Bangladeshi librarians’ perceptions about the extent of their awareness, use and knowledge of cloud computing technologies in their libraries. The current study may be useful to librarians and professionals in this sector, and it has the potential to be replicated in other developing nations. The specific objectives of the study are:
to ascertain the librarians’ level of understanding of cloud computing;
to indicate the presence of cloud computing services in libraries;
to look into the feasibility of using cloud computing in library activities and services; and
to propose a working model for a cloud-based library system.
To attain this, the following research questions (RQs) were designed:
What are the librarians’ perceptions on cloud computing in library services?
What kind of cloud services do they think would be ideal for their library?
What should be the main reasons for adopting different cloud environments?
What problems do librarians face while implementing cloud technology in libraries?
4. Research methodology
A mixed research method has been adopted for analysing quantitative (survey method) and qualitative (interview method) data. We have collected data from 10 libraries selected purposively, including six university libraries and four special libraries in Dhaka and Rajshahi city of Bangladesh, as shown in Table 1. We have selected sample libraries based on those that have already been involved and those that are going to be involved in cloud-based activities in their libraries. A set of structured questionnaires was designed to collect data from the respondent libraries. The set of questionnaires contained four sections, and each section was further subdivided into several parts to collect their institutional information, basics about cloud computing, activities and services in the cloud environment and challenges for cloud computing. A five-point Likert scale was used to depict the frequency, rationality and agreement level, etc., of opinions held by selected libraries. Qualitative terms for the Likert Scale have been arranged in descending order, for example, from “Always” to “Never” expressed by 5 to 1 numerical values. Therefore, the higher the mean (x¯) is, the greater the frequency, rationality and agreement level, etc., of the data item. The SD (σ) value of data items was also analysed to show whether the data point tends to be close to the mean or spread over a large range of values. A Mann–Whitney (MW) U test was conducted to observe the differences in selecting various types of cloud computing and the problems in implementing cloud computing between academic and special libraries. IBM SPSS V25.0 was used to analyse and test the collected data.
Besides, a structured schedule was designed for an interview session based on 13 questions. The first six questions were asked to learn their identities, including educational qualification, designation, organization’s name, experience, etc. The next two questions were asked to find their deliberation, including whether they had achieved anything in the profession and information technology (IT) sector. Furthermore, the next two questions were asked to gain an in-depth understanding of their concept about modern library services, including their philosophy towards modern library services and their judgement about digital/modern library services. The last three questions were asked to know their valuable thoughts about the use of cloud computing to spread digital library services and the main challenges of cloud computing in Bangladesh.
Among the 10 sampled libraries, employees of four libraries (40%) gave a schedule for the interview. Among the four respondents, all have a master’s degree in Library and Information Science. One of the respondents has a PhD and a master’s degree in both “Library and Information Science” and “Mass Communication and Journalism”. One respondent has an MPhil degree. The gender of all the interviewees was male. The designations of the interviewees were: university librarian, officer-in-charge (library), library officer and reproduction officer. The average age of experience was 13.25 years of library service. The face-to-face interviews were conducted at the respondents’ work-places, and the sessions of the interviews were transcribed properly from the mobile phone recordings to paper documents.
5. Analysis of the study
The results of the study are discussed in the following sections to address the RQs.
5.1 The cloud-computing concept
As the concept of cloud computing is of recent origin, its meaning may not be clear to different people. Therefore, the responding librarians were asked to indicate which meaning of cloud computing is more logical to them by giving them three options to test their understanding level regarding the concept of cloud computing. All three definitions of cloud computing are more or less acceptable (Table 2).
Table 2 shows that 40% of the respondents treated cloud computing as a system where the infrastructure can be made larger for the convenience of users with payment (x¯ = 4.20, σ = 0.79). It is also noteworthy that 30% of the total respondents also agreed strongly regarding the other two definitions of cloud computing each, i.e. “a computing model of public and private networks” (x¯) = 3.90, σ = 0.88) and “a serving party of structure, platform, and software” (x¯ = 4.10, σ = 0.74).
5.2 Cloud-computing availability in libraries
Figure 1 shows the status of cloud computing in the libraries under survey. Only four out of 10 libraries use cloud computing in their systems, of which three academic libraries and one special library offer cloud computing service. The findings show that availability of cloud computing in the libraries is not at a satisfactory level.
The other six libraries that did not have cloud computing in their libraries were asked whether they had any plans to adopt cloud computing in near future. In reply, one library stated that they had a plan, and the other four responding libraries did not have any plan to adopt cloud computing (Figure 2).
5.3 The current state of cloud computing
Out of 10 libraries, only four (40%) that confirmed the existence of cloud computing in their libraries were asked to mention their present status by offering three options:
a full cloud environment;
a partial cloud environment; and
a smaller-scale environment.
No one claimed to have a full cloud environment, while only two (50%) of the responding libraries claimed to have a “partial cloud environment” and a “smaller-scale cloud environment” (Figure 3).
5.4 Rationality in the use of cloud computing in library activities and services
There are different types of cloud computing services based on the capability from which libraries can take advantage, such as SaaS, IaaS, PaaS and Data-as-a-Service (DaaS) (Chhatwal and Kanwal, 2010; Terzo et al., 2013). All of the responding libraries were asked to indicate the rationality for selecting each type of cloud computing from the library’s point of view or which type could be the best suited for library services by providing some reasons for each type. The result is shown in Table 3.
Table 3 shows that the highest number of responding libraries (90%) think that their library should select “Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)” cloud computing as “data can be stored either on the local server of the library or on the server or service provider”. The mean value for this logic was the highest (x¯) = 4.90), which indicates “strongly agree” on the Likert Scale, and, at the same time, the SD value of this argument was the lowest (σ = 0.32), which means the data point were less spread out over the values. A good number of respondent libraries (40%) strongly agreed that they could select “Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS)” due to its “large capacity with enough space for digitizing data and configured hardware” (x¯ = 3.60; σ = 1.58). About half of the respondents strongly agreed that it “can integrate library systems, archival management software, and initiate website applications through one platform” (x¯ = 4.10; σ = 1.29), which can be the main reason for selecting “Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS)” as a type of cloud computing. The mean score for “collection and dissemination of huge data” (x¯ = 3.90) denotes “agree” for choosing “Data-as-a-Service (DaaS)” cloud type.
A MW U test was also conducted to observe the differences between academic and special libraries in selecting different types of cloud computing. The results of the test show that there is a significant level of mean differences in rationality in selecting different types of cloud computing between academic and special libraries except the rationality, i.e. “data can be stored either on the local server of the library or on the server or service provider” (M-W U = 9.00; Asymp.sig.= 0.221).
5.5 Cloud-based library activities and services
Cloud computing has the ability to expand the reach of libraries, create a seamless environment for interaction between the library and its users, increase cooperation opportunities and improve the library’s general regular activities (Irenoa et al., 2018). Figure 4 reveals that the four libraries that are currently using cloud computing were asked to indicate the types of library activities and services they normally performed in the cloud environment.
All libraries (100%) under the survey mostly used cloud-enabled library tools and services for shared catalogue (OPAC), shared bibliographic data, shared full-text storing facility, digital library service, library automation and search service. A high percentage of surveyed libraries (75%) also used cloud computing for federated search, website hosting and consortium purposes. Only one library (25%) indicated that it uses cloud computing for office applications.
5.6 Issues with implementing cloud technology on a large scale
There are several reasons for the unwillingness to implement cloud computing in libraries, including fear of negative consequences, insecurity over data in the cloud, dependency on service providers, etc. (Yuvaraj, 2015a). Parker (2017) listed six challenges before adopting cloud computing in any institute: cost, service provider reliability, downtime, password security, data privacy and vendor lock-in. The notion of cloud computing is not well-known in Indian libraries, which face a number of issues related to cloud computing, including standard software, administrative complexity, financial limits, connectivity issues, and so on (Parashar et al., 2014).
The challenges of deploying cloud computing in libraries vary greatly. Researchers that have looked into cloud computing have discovered a number of issues. These difficult issues can be classified into five broad categories based on the available literature (Choo, 2010; Ramesh and Yadagiri, 2012; Chandar, 2014; Han and Han, 2015; Aharony, 2015; Kumar, 2017; Yudah and Geoffrey, 2019; Lavinski, 2019; Aiyebelehin et al., 2020; Jalamneh and Khder, 2021; Njoku and Ken-Agbiriogu, 2021). Privacy and security concerns, psychological concerns, ethical and legal concerns, financial concerns, administrative, ICT and other concerns are among them.
Simultaneously, librarians surveyed encountered a number of problems in accepting cloud technology. All the responding libraries (10) were asked to indicate the problems they were facing in implementing the cloud-based library environment at full-scale. The results are shown in Table 4.
Table 4 shows that half of the total responding libraries (50%) did not consider fear of losing data, data fraud and theft, virus issues and hacking personal information as privacy and security problems in implementing a cloud-based library environment. In the category of privacy and security issues, the highest mean score was 2.80, indicating cloud computing as a moderate problem for threats to system security. Sudden expiration (30%) and fear of change (20%) are severe psychological issues that obstruct the responding libraries from accepting cloud technology in their libraries in Bangladesh. In the case of the psychological category, the mean score for adaptability and dependency on outsiders was the highest (x¯ = 2.50) denoting the moderate problem on the Likert Scale, although half of the respondent libraries did not think that there was any chance of losing imported and stored data after expiration of the deed with cloud providers. The lack of international legislation (40%) in cloud-based library services was a key issue that compelled the respondent libraries to reject cloud-based services. On the other hand, 60% of the responding librarians think that if the service providers lose their data, the libraries can take action against them. Due to the high subscription rate (70%), unreliable online payment and trading system (60%), libraries included in the survey treated cloud services as a burden on providing service. Lack of collaboration and coordination (40%) and administrative support (30%) were the other issues surveyed libraries faced in providing cloud-based library services.
A separate MW U test was also run to test the differences between academic and special libraries regarding the problems they faced in implementing cloud computing. Except for reasons like data fraud and theft (M-W U = 5.00; Asymp.sig. = 0.109), fear of autonomy (M-W U = 4.000; Asymp.sig. = 0.054), if data are lost, no action is taken against (M-W U = 4.000; Asymp.sig. = 0.053) and high subscription rate (M-W U = 5.000; Asymp.sig. = 0.065), the test shows that there is a significant level of mean differences between academic and special libraries.
5.7 Results of the interview
The results of the interview were analysed in terms of challenges, threats, problems and prospects. Situations with low demands and high resources are defined as challenges, while those with high demands and little resources are perceived as threats (Seginer, 2008). A difficult condition is referred to as a problem, and future realization in the future is referred to as a prospect (Merriam-Webster, n.d.a, n.d.b). The researchers intended to know what the interviewee thought about modern library services, the importance of digital library services and the impact and obstacles of cloud computing on digital library premises. The overview of the interview session is shown in Figure 5:
The interviewees were asked to state their philosophy towards modern library service. In response to the query, one participant stated that:
Libraries in our country are lagging behind compared to other countries in the context of modern facilities […]. new ideas generated by developed countries are often adopted by pioneer institutes in our country.
He added that those technologies should be adopted in our libraries, which might be “beneficial for the profession, the people, and us.”
Another respondent emphasized that all of the university libraries need to move to the digital arena. He believed that:
[…] in the digital age, the universities are treated as the lighthouse of a nation, and consequently, there should be more university libraries from where users can get access to huge resources.
One respondent has a sound background in “Linux administration” and is trying to set-up a “Voice library”. He said that:
[…] a library should be a simple place where users generally come to get the information they need, whenever they need […] rendering service to the users should be the main motto of modern library service.
Another respondent who is trying to learn how to develop a “knowledge-based society with the dataflow” remarked that a digital or modern library should be something like a “world under a finger”.
The interviewees were asked to remark on how important digital libraries or modern library services are in the present perspective of Bangladesh. The respondent was very positive about the latest information technology and digitization and remarked, “[…] adopting anything digital, it becomes more effective to render service smoothly”. The respondent thought that it was a complicated one as “a digital library is where everything is in digital format, but in reality, it is not possible in all cases”. Therefore, he focused on the “hybrid digital library”, which might be the solution in the context of Bangladesh as a developing country. The respondent further thought that the digital library:
[…] can play a pioneering role in many ways, like helping in building a humane and knowledgeable society […] every library should be digitized, and resources should be shared with everyone.
The interviewees were also asked to judge the impact of cloud computing on the spread of digital library services in the context of Bangladesh. One respondent views cloud computing positively in library services by stating, “it is a wonderful technology to adopt if the library has a proper infrastructure […] proper planning is a must before adopting these new technologies”. Another respondent commented, “This technology will be popular shortly” in spreading nationwide digital library service. The respondent thought that:
[…] cloud computing is a very prospective service that allows us to share and collaborate without interruption, without any service stopping […] cloud computing in the library will help us spread and expand our library services effectively.
The respondent also observed, “As it is an Internet-based platform, cloud computing can play a vital role in digital information services”.
The responding librarians were asked to point out the main challenges and plans for cloud computing in the context of Bangladesh. The respondents identified the challenges as:
[…] the most important thing is that most of the people were not aware of its facilities much […] possibly it may possibly have a good future, but it will take a little time. It needs people to rely on the cloud system more. Then the success of cloud computing would be seen.
“There are mainly two challenges to cloud computing in Bangladesh: one is the financial allocation and another one is the organization’s decision relating to cloud computing”. “Lack of awareness would be the main challenge for cloud computing in the context of Bangladesh, even though cloud computing can revolutionize our communication system and information service”.
It is evident from the interview that the majority of librarians in Bangladesh are unaware of the benefits and features of cloud computing. It is observed that most librarians are afraid of losing their autonomy if they join a cloud network. Moreover, librarians do not have enough authority to persuade higher authorities to make a favourable choice. The positive appraisal of the parent organization is critical in allocating funds to subscribe to its amenities. However, the most encouraging aspect is that the librarians believe they will be able to implement cloud computing in libraries of Bangladesh in the near future, as it is in demand due to the age of the population. Before that, the overall infrastructure of the library must be updated.
6. Problems and recommendations
Libraries in developed countries are increasingly adopting cloud technology (Rahoo and Khan, 2020), despite the fact that this notion has yet to catch on in libraries in the developing world (Mahalakshmi and Sornam, 2012). There are several reasons behind this: trustworthiness of cloud service providers, selection of appropriate software, administrative and financial complexity, lack of awareness, data protection and security issues, internet connectivity problems, etc. (Majhi et al., 2015). Libraries in this part of the world typically do not have enough funds from their parent organizations to subscribe to cloud-based services. Furthermore, unreliable power supply and slow internet connection (Aiyebelehin et al., 2020) have exacerbated the situation. As a result, cloud-based modern library services remain a pipe dream in most libraries.
Like other developing countries, the libraries of Bangladesh are concerned about the performance and reliability of cloud-based services over the internet. Adoption of these new technologies in libraries is further hampered by users’ unconsciousness of their relative benefits, bandwidth costs, connectivity speed, etc. There are also a few unfavourable attitudes about cloud computing that might have a negative influence on adoption, such as cloud providers might abruptly discontinue their services, service costs may increase in the future and national legislation might prohibit institutions from storing data on a third party’s cloud (Mohlameane and Ruxwana, 2014). Besides, one of the reasons for the unpopularity of cloud computing in this part of the world is that most librarians are not aware of its benefits. Therefore, in spite of its applicability, the popularity of cloud technologies has not been at the expected level in the libraries of Bangladesh.
In the context of Bangladesh, most of the libraries are not well-developed. Therefore, it will be very difficult to adopt cloud computing as a charge-based service. Many private-sector libraries, especially private university libraries, have been trying to digitize library resources. However, converting local digitized services into cloud services would require taking proper decisions. Converting the present library service into a cloud-based one will ensure greater benefit for the libraries, and if this much-needed conversion does not take place, libraries will have to face a lot of risks with the present library infrastructure. There are a good number of reasons behind the low rate of adoption of cloud computing in Bangladeshi libraries, which are stated below:
Administrators, policymakers and government executives are not fully aware of the benefits of cloud computing, particularly in the library field. Therefore, they discourage accepting this technology. Library professionals also fail to convince them to adopt the system.
A major problem is related to budget, which is a very essential factor for the proper development of any organization. The higher authority does not want to invest more in a non-profitable organization like a library. The libraries in this part of the world do not often get enough budgets for their development or renovation. Therefore, with this limited budget, librarians have to purchase books, subscribe to journals, etc., and provide salaries for the staff. As a result, they do not immediately consider moving library systems to the cloud.
Another problem is the lack of proper ICT knowledge among the library personnel in our country. They are lagging behind in the IT sector because of their hesitation, shyness and fear of accepting something new.
The downloading speed of internet entries is not at a satisfactory level in Bangladesh. According to the Speedtest Global Index (2022), Bangladesh is ranked 10th in the world by the lowest mobile internet speed, with an average speed of 9.67 Mbps. This is a huge problem when planning to go for the cloud computing. For getting an uninterrupted cloud-based library service, the whole or a part of the system needs an internet connection with sufficient speed, which is a major problem at this moment in Bangladesh.
Lack of enthusiasm, initiatives and proper planning are present in the libraries of the country. That is why this concept has not been popular here.
Many library professionals are not yet prepared to accept cloud-based technology, thinking that it might not be helpful in library services. Therefore, they do not encourage the idea of promoting cloud-based services in libraries.
There is no governmental policy relating to this concept. Therefore, many libraries do not want to trust cloud providers.
Lack of organizational co-operation and collaboration is widespread in Bangladesh, which has hampered the adoption of cloud technologies in libraries.
Cloud-based library services are not free of charge in most cases. As a non-profitable organization, in most cases, libraries often feel a burden to manage funds for this purpose.
There are several advantages to adopting cloud computing in libraries. It reduces the cost of installation, maintenance, storage and hosting of hardware, software and data. Moreover, there is no need for ICT expertise for customization, maintenance and hosting. It ensures increased reliability, operational efficiency and uninterrupted library service. Libraries in the modern world can take advantage of cloud computing in their libraries by ensuring integrity of data, backups and management of disaster and failure-related problems. Using cloud computing in the operational tasks of a growing organization, like the library, will help the organization be more effective and less time-consuming in their jobs. As a result, the following suggestions are provided for popularizing cloud computing in Bangladeshi libraries:
Administrators, policymakers and governmental executives should be aware of the significance of cloud computing. Library professionals should convince them to adopt the system by making them understand the necessity of this technology in libraries.
In this digital arena, most libraries have their own servers with which they can render their service to users through the Web. However, these servers are not so cheap and, most frequently, they also need the maintenance. In this case, cloud computing can come to aid by saving the extra cost. The authorities would only give them money for the portion of the cloud-based services that is actually used by them. In most cases, it has been observed that the authorities or library personnel do not know about the matter.
Every library professional should know at least the basics of IT. A person with basic knowledge in IT can also handle cloud computing technology easily.
If library services and activities are to be conducted on the Web, the speed of infrastructure development and internet connection should be increased.
Long-term library planning should be undertaken to ensure the success of innovative technologies like cloud computing.
Technologies should be developed to simplify the work pattern and life. Therefore, we should be prepared to embrace new technologies. Libraries will be no exception to this.
The government and high officials should conduct a Massive Open Online Course-based training programme on cloud computing. With this training, the human resources in the library would become more efficient.
The government should formulate policies for cloud computing. This step could get some of the entrepreneurs interested in this field.
Cooperation and collaboration should be established between sister organizations on cloud-based library services, and they can work centrally to achieve a goal.
It is a critical task to select the right types of software covering the major functions and services of the libraries in Bangladesh. Moreover, the libraries in this South Asian region have frequently faced ever-increasing challenge of converting digital objects, grooming their technical workforce and developing digital platforms. Due to copyright and intellectual property rules, it is also a question of deciding which ones should be digitized and which ones should not be. There are several difficulties faced by the libraries of Bangladesh while converting into digital libraries, which are much more related to the problems in adapting cloud technologies also, such as the problem of renewing licensed databases, inconsistent use of metadata, continuous update and maintenance of software, lack of technical expertise, mounting subscription of databases and financial limitations. Therefore, accepting open-source software in a cloud environment could be an aid to this point. The government, along with library leaders of Bangladesh, should come forward for carrying out advocacy of cloud technology to mitigate the present limitations. In this case, a few things have to be emphasized to embrace any new technology in libraries, such as collaboration among libraries for sharing new knowledge, incorporating the cloud computing concept into the curriculum of library and information science schools and devising new policy and regulations by the University Grants Commission on how to make the best utilization of this (Begum, 2019). In light of the problems faced by the libraries of Bangladesh and the prescribed solution suggested to overcome them, a plan for adopting cloud technology in the libraries of Bangladesh can be advised through the following deployment model:
Figure 6 shows that the library can deploy cloud-based library services with the help of parent organizations and government institutions. In this case, the cloud service providers are mainly responsible for installation, maintenance, problem-solving and upgrading. Parent organizations will ensure security, legal issues, trustworthiness and privacy from cloud providers. The libraries can connect with government institutions and parent organizations to get the sufficient funds. The government institutions should arrange various programmes, like managing funds from the government’s Access to Information (a2i) (now redefined as Aspire to Innovate) (a2i) programme for research and sustainability of the programme. Professional bodies, like the Library Association of Bangladesh, Bangladesh Association of Librarians, Information Scientists and Documentalists should organize seminars, symposia, webinars, hands-on training, workshops, etc., on the theory and practice of cloud computing for professionals as well as non-professionals. Islam et al. (2017b) noted that for greater throughput, mass library people must be encouraged to get involved by arranging discussion programmes, bringing out handouts, brochures, manuals, etc., like printed publications on cloud computing. Furthermore, problem-solving features, updates and new cloud computing capabilities should be distributed through online forums such as Communities of Practice (CoPs), blogs, social networking sites, and so on.
The creation of awareness of any new technology by the community is much more closely connected to the users’ acceptance and recognition of the technology. Perceived usefulness and ease of use of the cloud system are the two factors for users’ recognition of cloud systems like the TAM. The TAM may also be used to promote community awareness of cloud technology acceptance. Cloud computing service providers should emphasize how cloud technologies may help libraries enhance their performance. Furthermore, cloud computing users should be encouraged to develop a belief in it. The notion of “cloud computing” is growing as a low-cost technology compared to its perceived utility. As a consequence, librarians will find it simple to deploy cloud-based library services and library customers will become accustomed to receiving enhanced library services in a more efficient cloud environment. Librarians can take effective measures to raise user awareness about the use of cloud technology in library services by informing library users regularly about the benefits and advantages of cloud-based activities via library blogs, Facebook pages and other social media platforms such as library community spaces. They can also create CoPs so that cloud technology users can collaborate, execute and learn together. Besides, for embracing this new technology, the library personnel and the library patrons should be trained before full-scale cloud deployment in Bangladeshi libraries.
7. Conclusion
Librarians must make use of cloud technology as a means of offering services and recognize its significance in the adoption process. Khozani et al. (2021) identified librarians as one of the important determinative factors for the successful implementation of cloud computing, as in the libraries of third-world countries, the cloud has yet to get a solid footing (Wang et al., 2010). Therefore, to incorporate new technology into libraries, Rasoulzadeh (2013) listed a few prerequisites, including altering the nature and purpose of libraries and librarians; realizing the value of cloud computing and changing attitudes towards it; and revising librarian job descriptions. Tella et al. (2020) identified nine factors that influence cloud adoption. This is true for all countries, especially those in the developing world. These determinants include enabling circumstances, perceived advantages, user-friendliness, perceived ease of use, perceived security, perceived simplicity of maintenance, perceived flexibility, perceived reliability and higher performance.
In the libraries of Bangladesh, the practice of cloud computing was not initiated long ago, although most librarians rightly treated the concept of cloud computing as “dynamically-scalable infrastructure” (Harris, n.d.). The popular library activities and services in the cloud environment of Bangladesh encompass shared catalogue (OPAC), shared bibliographic data, shared full-text storing facility, digital library service and library automation. The study found that only four out of 10 libraries used cloud computing in their libraries. Only two libraries reported having a partial cloud or a smaller-scale cloud environment. In the present study, most of the respondent librarians expressed their opinions on SaaS for the reason that data can be stored on either a local server or a server of service providers. Because of its large capacity, with ample room for digitizing data and configurable hardware, a high percentage of respondent libraries strongly agreed that they could choose IaaS. This study showed that cloud computing services hold great opportunities for library and information institutions in Bangladesh, as cloud computing has more benefits than traditional computing. It is high time for the libraries in Bangladesh to offer more cloud computing-based innovative and modern services for their patrons because cloud technology supports libraries and librarians in building a collaborative knowledge production network, and because cloud computing is one of the ways that they may thrive among information rivals (Manjunatha and Shivalingaiah, 2004; Khozani et al., 2021). Despite the immense potential of cloud computing, it has not gained popularity in the libraries of Bangladesh. Therefore, libraries and information institutions should raise awareness about cloud computing, encourage the use of cloud computing services and hold workshops and training programmes on how to deal with cloud computing services and activities in libraries. Library professionals in Bangladesh should also start realizing the importance of cloud services for the improvement of sustainable library services.
The present research has, however, some limitations which are listed below:
As the concept of cloud computing is new to libraries in the Third World, most libraries are reluctant to introduce cloud-based services. As a result, improved service is missing in libraries except few modern libraries in Bangladesh. For this reason, there was no opportunity to expand the scope of the research.
Another main limitation of this research is that the study was carried out only in Bangladeshi libraries.
The present study highlighted only librarians’ perceptions of cloud computing, and it did not cover users’ views.
In the context of Bangladesh, it may be suggested that future researchers should cover a broader group of libraries for further study. Future research may also be conducted on how these new technologies can be popularized in these libraries. In addition, to gain a broader perspective, it is suggested that another study be conducted to explore the users’ opinion about the extent of using cloud computing and their familiarity of this technology, and compare the results with the librarians’ perceptions.
The authors would like to express their gratitude to all the librarians for completing the questionnaire and participating in the interview session. The researchers also would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the relevant libraries and information centres for giving permission of research. In addition, the authors would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the editorial board members, publishing authority and are also thankful to anonymous reviewers whose valuable comments have improved the article.
Availability of cloud computing (CC) in the libraries
The future plan regarding CC
Current state of cloud computing
Library activities and services in a cloud environment
Summary of the interview
Dynamic working model for cloud-based library system
Study areas of research
| S. N. | Surveyed library | Types of library | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | A-01 | Academic Library | Dhaka, Bangladesh |
| 2. | A-02 | Academic Library | Dhaka, Bangladesh |
| 3. | A-03 | Academic Library | Dhaka, Bangladesh |
| 4. | A-04 | Academic Library | Dhaka, Bangladesh |
| 5. | A-05 | Academic Library | Rajshahi, Bangladesh |
| 6. | A-06 | Academic Library | Dhaka, Bangladesh |
| 7. | S-01 | Special Library | Dhaka, Bangladesh |
| 8. | S-02 | Special Library | Dhaka, Bangladesh |
| 9. | S-03 | Special Library | Dhaka, Bangladesh |
| 10. | S-04 | Special Library | Dhaka, Bangladesh |
Note:In order to ensure research confidentiality and legal issues, the names of academic libraries have been purposefully omitted. Instead, they have been encoded anonymously as A-01, A-02, and the like while the names of special libraries have been encoded as S-01, S-02 and so on
Understanding level of cloud computing
| Concept of cloud computing | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | Mean |
SD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A computing model where larger pools of systems are connected to public and private networks (Harris, n.d.) | 30 | 30 | 40 | 0 | 0 | 3.90 | 0.88 |
| A system for providing dynamically-scalable infrastructure for application, data and file storage with charges (Harris, n.d.) | 40 | 40 | 20 | 0 | 0 | 4.20 | 0.79 |
| A serving party that offers its infrastructure, platform or software resources to one or many clients (Nagrath et al., 2015) | 30 | 50 | 20 | 0 | 0 | 4.10 | 0.74 |
Notes:N.B. 5 = Strongly Agree, 4 = Agree, 3 = Undecided, 2 = Disagree, 1 = Strongly Disagree (The number in the cell of Likert Scale indicates percentage)
Justifications for choosing different types of cloud computing (multiple responses)
| Justifications for choosing different types of cloud computing | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | Mean |
SD |
Mann–Whitney U | Asymp. Sig. (two-tailed) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) | |||||||||
| Do not need to buy and install software | 40 | 30 | 20 | 10 | 0 | 4.00 | 1.05 | 1.000 | 0.014* |
| Data can be stored either on the local server of the library or on the server or service provider | 90 | 10 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4.90 | 0.32 | 9.000 | 0.221 |
| B. Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) | |||||||||
| Able to expand and reduces resource according to specific requirements | 20 | 30 | 30 | 10 | 10 | 3.40 | 1.26 | 1.000 | 0.016* |
| Large capacity with enough space for digitizing data and configured hardware | 40 | 20 | 20 | 0 | 20 | 3.60 | 1.58 | 0.000 | 0.008* |
| The service provider can provide server space, storage space and network equipment | 20 | 30 | 20 | 10 | 20 | 3.20 | 1.48 | 0.500 | 0.012* |
| Continuous development and up-gradation of hardware individually | 30 | 30 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 3.60 | 1.35 | 0.000 | 0.009* |
| C. Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) | |||||||||
| Perform several tasks integrating several types of software in a different environment (Windows, Linux) | 10 | 50 | 20 | 0 | 20 | 3.30 | 1.34 | 0.000 | 0.006* |
| Integrate library system, archival management software and initiate website application through one platform | 50 | 30 | 10 | 0 | 10 | 4.10 | 1.29 | 1.000 | 0.011* |
| D. Data-as-a-Service (DaaS) | |||||||||
| Huge data storing capacity | 30 | 40 | 10 | 20 | 0 | 3.80 | 1.14 | 1.500 | 0.019* |
| Collection and dissemination of huge data | 30 | 50 | 0 | 20 | 0 | 3.90 | 1.10 | 3.000 | 0.037* |
Notes:N.B. 5 = Strongly Agree, 4 = Agree, 3 = Undecided, 2 = Disagree, 1 = Strongly Disagree (The number in the cell of Likert Scale indicates percentage). *Significant at p < 0.05
Issues with full-scale cloud computing implementation
| Categories of problems | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | Mean |
SD |
Mann–Whitney U | Asymp. Sig. (two-tailed) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Privacy and security issues | |||||||||
| Threats to system security | 20 | 30 | 0 | 10 | 40 | 2.80 | 1.75 | 0.000 | 0.007* |
| Fear of losing data | 0 | 30 | 0 | 20 | 50 | 2.10 | 1.37 | 2.000 | 0.021* |
| Breach the privacy | 10 | 20 | 0 | 30 | 40 | 2.30 | 1.49 | 0.000 | 0.007* |
| Data fraud and theft | 20 | 20 | 0 | 10 | 50 | 2.50 | 1.78 | 5.000 | 0.109 |
| Virus issue | 20 | 0 | 0 | 30 | 50 | 2.10 | 1.60 | 2.000 | 0.021* |
| Online network program | 10 | 0 | 0 | 50 | 40 | 1.90 | 1.20 | 0.000 | 0.005* |
| Hacking personal information | 30 | 0 | 0 | 20 | 50 | 2.40 | 1.84 | 2.000 | 0.021* |
| B. Psychological issues | |||||||||
| Fear of change | 20 | 20 | 0 | 10 | 50 | 2.50 | 1.78 | 2.000 | 0.022* |
| Fear of autonomy | 10 | 10 | 0 | 20 | 60 | 1.90 | 1.45 | 4.000 | 0.054 |
| Sudden expiration | 30 | 20 | 0 | 10 | 40 | 2.90 | 1.85 | 0.000 | 0.007* |
| Adaptability and dependency on outsiders | 10 | 30 | 0 | 20 | 40 | 2.50 | 1.58 | 0.000 | 0.007* |
| Chance of losing imported and stored data after the expiration | 10 | 10 | 0 | 30 | 50 | 2.00 | 1.41 | 2.000 | 0.021* |
| C. Ethical and legal issues | |||||||||
| Reliability of cloud service | 20 | 30 | 0 | 10 | 40 | 2.80 | 1.75 | 0.000 | 0.007* |
| If data are lost, no action is taken against | 20 | 20 | 0 | 0 | 60 | 2.40 | 1.84 | 4.000 | 0.053 |
| Cross-border jurisdiction | 10 | 10 | 0 | 30 | 50 | 2.00 | 1.41 | 2.000 | 0.021* |
| Lack of international legislation | 40 | 10 | 0 | 0 | 50 | 2.90 | 2.02 | 2.000 | 0.018* |
| D. Cost issue | |||||||||
| Financial problems and undeveloped digital culture | 20 | 30 | 0 | 20 | 30 | 2.90 | 1.66 | 0.500 | 0.011* |
| Migration of data and upgrading cost | 10 | 30 | 0 | 10 | 50 | 2.40 | 1.65 | 2.000 | 0.021* |
| High subscription rate | 10 | 70 | 0 | 0 | 20 | 3.50 | 1.35 | 5.000 | 0.065 |
| Unreliable online payment and trading system | 10 | 60 | 0 | 0 | 30 | 3.20 | 1.55 | 2.500 | 0.020* |
| E. Administrative, ICT and other issues | |||||||||
| Lacking a high level of organizational collaboration and coordination internally | 10 | 40 | 0 | 20 | 30 | 2.80 | 1.55 | 0.500 | 0.010* |
| Administrative support problem | 0 | 30 | 0 | 30 | 40 | 2.20 | 1.32 | 0.000 | 0.007* |
| Electricity, hardware and software failure | 10 | 10 | 0 | 40 | 40 | 2.10 | 1.37 | 0.000 | 0.006* |
| Slow and interrupted Internet connectivity | 10 | 10 | 0 | 40 | 40 | 2.10 | 1.37 | 0.000 | 0.006* |
| Minimum control over data, application, platform and infrastructure | 20 | 20 | 0 | 30 | 30 | 2.70 | 1.64 | 1.000 | 0.016* |
Notes:N.B. 5 = Severe problem, 4 = Problem, 3 = Moderate problem, 2 = Slight problem, 1 = No problem at all (The number in the cell of Likert Scale indicates percentage). *Significant at p < 0.05
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