Innovation and the Cloud: A review of literature

In IT industry, Cloud computing impact is felt on both market and technology dimensions. In this paper we analyze the phenomenon using the complex concept of innovation since academic studies providing a clear understanding of Cloud computing from an innovation perspective have been scarce. First, we comprehended various attributes of technology innovation and its types derived from various streams of technological innovation literature and then explored the Cloud computing characteristics by asking 'what type of technological innovation is the Cloud?' and found that Cloud phenomenon appears to satisfy most of the aspects of technological innovation types. The findings from this study could be starting point for practitioners to conceptualize Cloud computing using innovation concept and then develop informed business strategies.