CIS 500 WEEK 1 DISCUSSION Shadow IT for Business Operations (20 points) Organizations do not always provide information systems that allow their staff to perform their responsibilities efficiently and effectively. Read the article, “Lifting the Veil Off Shadow IT.” Then, respond to the following: • o Take a position favoring or opposing shadow IT. o If you are in favor, give one reason that shadow IT should be allowed. If you are not in favor, provide one way that the organization can reduce the risks of shadow IT. o What is the best way an IT department can meet users’ technology needs without additional cost or risk to the organization? Justify your answer by responding to another student’s post that differs from your answer. Explain why your idea is preferable. o Do not repeat suggestions from the article or that have been posted by another student. NOTE: MORE THAN ONE ANSWER POSTED AS A BONUS CHOOSE ANY YOU LIKE

Shadow IT, also known as Stealth IT, refers to the use of information technology systems and software within an organization without the explicit approval or control of the IT department. It typically arises when employees find the provided IT solutions inadequate for their specific needs and resort to using their own tools and applications. While some may argue that shadow IT can bring certain benefits to an organization, I take the position opposing its use due to the risks it poses and believe that organizations should take measures to reduce its occurrence.

One reason why some might favor shadow IT is its potential to improve employee productivity and innovation. Employees who feel limited by the technology provided by the organization may seek out alternative solutions that better align with their specific tasks and preferences. This can lead to increased efficiency and creativity in their work. However, the risks associated with shadow IT, such as data breaches, compromised security, and compatibility issues, outweigh these potential benefits.

To reduce the risks of shadow IT, organizations should focus on addressing the root causes that lead employees to resort to unauthorized technology. This includes conducting thorough assessments of the current IT infrastructure, identifying gaps and limitations, and actively involving employees in the decision-making process. By listening to employees’ needs and providing them with tailored IT solutions, organizations can minimize the occurrence of shadow IT and mitigate associated risks.

In order to meet users’ technology needs without additional cost or risk to the organization, the IT department should adopt a proactive approach. This involves fostering effective communication and collaboration with end users, understanding their requirements, and exploring available technological solutions. By building strong relationships with users and engaging them in the design and development process, the IT department can ensure that the provided solutions meet their needs while adhering to organizational standards, security protocols, and budget limitations.

Responding to a student who advocates for outsourcing IT functions as a way to meet users’ technology needs, I argue that keeping IT functions in-house is preferable. While outsourcing may initially seem like a cost-effective solution, it can result in loss of control and increased dependency on external entities. In-house IT departments have better knowledge of organizational processes, business objectives, and security requirements, which allows them to provide more tailored and effective solutions. Additionally, by keeping IT functions in-house, organizations can foster a culture of accountability, flexibility, and continuous improvement.

In conclusion, while shadow IT may bring some short-term benefits in terms of employee productivity and innovation, the risks it presents to an organization are significant. By addressing the underlying issues, such as inadequate IT solutions and lack of user involvement, organizations can reduce the occurrence of shadow IT and protect against potential drawbacks. The IT department plays a crucial role in meeting users’ technology needs by establishing strong relationships with users, understanding their requirements, and providing tailored solutions within the organization’s budget and security framework.