Identifying and Ranking Critical Success Factors for Cloud Computing Deployment at Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences

Background: Cloud computing offers benefits such as faster innovation, scalability, and the ability to access data from any internet-capable device. Objectives: To explore and identify the critical success factors for cloud computing deployment and ranking at Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences in 2023. Methods: This study employed a mixed approach (qualitative and quantitative) with an exploratory design. The qualitative part utilized the three-step Delphi method, while the quantitative part employed the descriptive method (survey type). A sample of 276 individuals was selected using the stratified random sampling method. Questionnaires were distributed to participants through various methods. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modeling. Results: The dimension with the highest average value was the service level agreement, with a value of 3.25. In second place was choosing a service vendor, with an average of 3.08, followed by optimization with an average of 2.73, and choosing a model with an average rating of 2. Conclusions: The implementation of cloud computing at Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences could lead to improved quality and efficiency in medical, research, and educational services.