Multidimensional Analysis of Cloud Technology Adoption in European Union Countries
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58423/2786-6742/2026-13-195-211Keywords:
cloud technologies, digital transformation, EU countries, multidimensional analysis, cluster analysis, sectoral analysis, cross-country differencesAbstract
The digitalisation of the economy and the growing importance of cloud technologies as key tools for data processing, storage, and exchange highlight the need for a comprehensive analysis of their adoption. This study examines patterns of cloud technology usage across European Union countries, taking into account both cross-country and sectoral differences. The research aims to identify the main characteristics and adoption patterns of cloud technologies in EU countries using multidimensional and cluster analysis. The methodological framework combines descriptive statistics, structural analysis, and multidimensional analysis. To evaluate the dynamics of cloud technology adoption, absolute changes and growth rates were calculated, allowing the intensity of adoption over the study period to be assessed. Sectoral analysis revealed significant disparities in cloud technology usage across economic activities. Cross-country differences were examined through cluster analysis, which enabled the grouping of countries according to similarities in their sectoral profiles. The findings indicate an overall upward trend in cloud technology adoption across EU countries, accompanied by substantial variation in adoption levels and growth rates. The highest adoption levels are observed in information and communication activities as well as professional and technical sectors, whereas more traditional sectors display lower levels of adoption. Cluster analysis identified three groups of countries: “Advanced Integration”, characterised by high and relatively homogeneous adoption levels; “Transitional Adoption”, reflecting moderate levels and moderate sectoral variation; and “Early-stage Adoption”, associated with lower adoption levels and fragmented adoption patterns. The results also show that higher levels of cloud technology adoption are linked to lower sectoral asymmetry. The results confirm structural heterogeneity in the digital transformation of EU countries and provide a basis for further research on the efficiency of cloud technology adoption and its impact on economic development.
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