It's in the Cloud: Theorizing Context-Specific Factors Influencing the Perception of Mobile Cloud Storage

Abstract

This paper examines the impact of mobile device characteristics on perceptions of cloud storage. Following the framework and guidelines for context-specific theorizing in information systems research, we develop and test a model that examines the following research questions: How does the individual's experience with mobile devices impact perceptions of mobile cloud storage? How do mobile context-specific factors influence the individual's adoption of cloud storage? The model incorporates context-specific factors such as ease of file storage, ease of file transfer, multiple device use, and mobile device use. Our study contributes to the literature on theorizing context-specific factors by highlighting the importance of mobile device characteristics and usage contexts in individual technology adoption research. We also identify both performance increases and security challenges in providing access to cloud storage through mobile devices to individuals.