Success Factors of Cloud Business Models

The acceleration of the technical change in the fast moving electronic market increases the uncertainty and risk of IT providers. This development seeks for stable guidelines and success factors for new and existing business models. Within our research, we conducted an intensive analysis of 45 providers on the cloud market regarding success-driving factors. We systemized their business models with the help of a cloud business model framework and analyzed them statistically. We revealed 39 successdriving business model characteristics that emphasize product related success factors, a high vertical integration as well as the charging and costs dimension. Finally, we discussed the prediction for success of cloud business models. Until now, experienced market players have the most successful business models, while newcomers have difficulties to compete.