Intention, trust and risks as core determinants of cloud computing usage behavior

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the determinants of cloud computing usage behavior by exploring trust, several trust antecedents, risk perceptions and the direct and mediating relationships of trust and perceived risk on the intention toward the behavior. Design/methodology/approach: An online survey was administered to 1,228 cloud technology users. Using structural equation modeling, a proposed framework of 13 factors that have a direct and indirect influence on the usage behavior was introduced and tested. Findings: It was observed that the intention toward the usage was influenced by trust and performance expectancy. Additionally, trust was affected by perceived accessibility and perceived technical support. The findings provided evidence on the diminished effect of perceived privacy and the insignificance of the mediating relationship of trust and perceived risk on the intention. Research limitations/implications: The study provides multiple implications for researchers by highlighting the concept of trust in this context and enriching their understanding of the relationship between risk and trust. Practical implications: The research provides valuable guidelines for service providers toward introducing major concerns and the importance of dependable technical support. Originality/value: This study contributes to the cloud computing literature by exploring the effect of perceived technical support on the usage and examining the relationship between trust and risk. © 2022, Emerald Publishing Limited.