Cloud Computing-Based Personal Information Management

Abstract

This study examined the cloud computing-based personal information management practices of online faculty in selected universities in Ghana. Using the qualitative research design, online faculties from six universities were selected and interviewed. Data collected was analysed thematically, bringing out faculty's perception and use of cloud computing services in managing personal information. The study revealed the implementation of the three basic cloud computing models-infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS), platform-as-a-service (PaaS) and software-as-a-service (SaaS). Online faculty had positive perceptions about the use of cloud computing services for their teaching, research, and management of their electronic information. It was, however, revealed that online faculty faced challenges in using cloud services due to their inadequate computing and technical know-how. The study recommended computer and digital literacy training for online faculty to enable them to use the various cloud services available for managing their personal information.