TechSoup Global finds NGOs are enthusiastic about cloud computing benefits but need more education and support

TechSoup Global has announced the results of its 2012 Global Cloud Computing Survey of 10,500 nonprofits, charities, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) from 88 countries – the most extensive technology survey ever conducted of NGOs around the globe.

The report reveals that a majority of NGOs are planning to move their information technology (IT) to the cloud. However, they need more education and support to take full advantage of the benefits cloud computing offers regarding costs, productivity and collaboration. Many NGOs are not even aware that they are using cloud applications already, or they are not familiar with the full suite of cloud-based applications available to them.

The survey results will enable the global NGO sector to make more informed decisions about cloud computing adoption and will also help capacity-building organizations, funders, corporate donors and partners develop programs that maximize the potential of these technologies. For example, NGOs state that startup costs of moving information to the cloud and externalities such as lack of consistent electricity or Internet access are barriers that prevent them from using cloud computing.

Key results of the 2012 Global Cloud Computing Survey include:

• 90% of respondents worldwide are using at least one cloud computing application.
• 53% report plans to move a “significant portion” of their IT to the cloud within three years.
• 60% say lack of knowledge is the greatest barrier to greater use of the cloud.
• 79% say the greatest advantage is easier software or hardware administration.
• 47% say cost-related changes and ease of setup would be the greatest motivators for moving their IT to the cloud.
• NGOs in Egypt, Mexico, India and South Africa have the most accelerated timetables for moving their IT to the cloud.

Leveraging the resources of TechSoup Global’s 36 partner organizations and more than 200,000 registered member organizations, the survey was translated into 21 languages. It includes statistically significant results (more than 100 responses) from 26 countries around the world.

To access the full report, visit techsoupglobal.org/2012-global-cloud-computing-survey. Details on responses by country are available in the appendix of the full report.