This literature review synthesized the existing research on cloud computing from a business perspective by investigating 60 sources. It integrates their results in order to offer an overview about the existing body of knowledge. Using an established framework our results are structured according to the four dimensions following: cloud computing characteristics, adoption determinants, governance mechanisms, and business impact. This work reveals a shifting focus from technological aspects to a broader understanding of cloud computing as a new IT delivery model. There is a growing consensus about its characteristics and design principles. Unfortunately, research on factors driving or inhibiting the adoption of cloud services, as well as research investigating its business impact empirically, is still limited. This may be attributed to cloud computing being a rather recent research topic. Research on structures, processes and employee qualification to govern cloud services is at an early stage as well.
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