SH(adow) IT Happens But Why?

In today’s modern world, people have grown used to getting what they need almost instantly. The same holds true in the workplace – if an issue arises without a clear, IT-sanctioned solution, a quick internet search will likely reveal a remedy that can be implemented without ever involving the IT department. These unauthorized programs and systems are known as Shadow IT and can leave organizations open to various levels of risk. Let’s further examine how SH(adow) IT actually happens.

There are four main reasons why Shadow IT occurs:

1. IT resources do not match the needs of the employees.
2. If IT offerings do not allow employees to complete their tasks in an efficient and timely manner, they will look elsewhere for solutions that can help them more easily meet their deadlines.
3. There is inadequate coordination between IT and the other departments.
4. Employees will look for a simpler way if they feel it is a hassle to “go through IT” or if the IT department doesn’t clearly communicate what they have to offer.
5. Employees are becoming increasingly tech-savvy. In today’s world, technology is everywhere and consumers are becoming more and more aware of the options that are available to them. Without a proper IT policy in place, employees won’t hesitate to use the systems and processes they are most familiar with.
6. External customers and partners can influence employees.
7. If IT-approved solutions are not user friendly or widely compatible with programs used by external companies/customers, employees will find their own solutions to ensure they can appropriately communicate and get their jobs done.

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