## 2 Literature Review
### Overview of Cloud Computing  
Cloud computing has been commonly described as a model for enabling convenient on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources that can be rapidly provisioned and utilised with minimal effort or interaction [24]. For example, [PERSON] and [PERSON] [25] considered it as a method for providing shared computing resources that are readily available for utilisation by standardisation and automation. Furthermore, [PERSON] [26] highlighted its accessibility and the sharing of computing resources and services from a pool of readily available infrastructures, irrespective of place or time. From an IT development perspective, cloud computing represents what [PERSON] [27] describes as a \"leapfrogging technology\", enabling resource-constrained governments to bypass traditional infrastructure investments while delivering sophisticated digital services that promote both economic growth and social inclusion. This aspect of cloud computing is particularly relevant, as it addresses both the limitations and capabilities constraints that often hinder technological progress in developing economies [28]. The cloud computing deployment and service delivery models promote availability and comprise five essential characteristics: on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, and measured service [25; 29; 30]. There are two primary cloud computing deployment models: public cloud and private cloud. However, combining personal computing resources and public services within the same environment and interaction is considered a hybrid cloud environment. Conversely, prior research has identified other cloud environments, such as multi-cloud, where various public cloud services are used within the same cloud environment to support different businesses and services. The three service delivery models for cloud computing infrastructure, as recognised by the USA's National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), are Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS) [29], which are described as follows:  
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) provides aggregated physical resources like servers, storage, provision processing, and networks for cloud consumers to run and deploy arbitrary software, including applications and operating systems [21]. It is considered an economic choice as organisations can meet their requirements without buying or providing any infrastructure. IaaS cloud providers are responsible for securing provisional infrastructures and ensuring operational procedures comply with the applicable laws and regulations. In developing contexts, IaaS has been shown to reduce capital expenditure barriers that have historically limited public sector digital transformation in resource-constrained environments [31]. Platform as a Service (PaaS) is a cloud-based computing environment where applications can be developed, run, and managed. The PaaS model runs on top of the IaaS services. As in the work of [PERSON] and [PERSON] [25] and [PERSON], [PERSON] [29], NIST describes the model as the ability to grant cloud consumers access to create, modify, and deploy applications using programming languages, libraries, services, and other relevant tools provided by cloud providers. [PERSON] and [PERSON] [21] indicate that PaaS offers a trusted environment for consumers to secure the storage and processing of confidential information, for instance, in the use of a cryptographic co-processor to protect against unauthorised access. It was designed to maximise users' control when managing features related to the privacy of sensitive information, which is accomplished through user data privacy methods and self-installed configurable software. For developing nations, PaaS creates opportunities for indigenous innovation and knowledge creation by fostering internal growth-driven dependence. Software as a Service (SaaS) represents applications or software running on the cloud infrastructure.