MEASURING AWS’S DUAL IMPACT ON SME INNOVATION: BEYOND JUST EFFICIENCY

Abstract

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly adopting Amazon Web Services (AWS) for its operational benefits, but its broader influence on innovation is still not well understood. This study explores how AWS affects SME innovation in two key ways: through measurable performance gains (like faster product launches and more frequent updates) and less tangible, yet equally important, cultural shifts (such as improved teamwork and creative problem-solving). Using a combination of surveys, financial data, and interviews with SME leaders, we found that AWS doesn’t just cut costs and speed up development—it also encourages a more agile and experimental workplace culture. Our findings suggest that while AWS delivers clear efficiency improvements, its deeper value may lie in transforming how SMEs approach innovation. The study offers a practical framework for SMEs to evaluate cloud computing’s role in their growth, helping them make strategic decisions about technology adoption.