Shadow IT is Problematic for Collaboration
Content collaboration platforms are more popular than ever as organizations produce and share a plethora of content every day. A centralized platform can simplify collaboration and promote productivity, but Shadow IT can put a hindrance on progress and optimal file sharing practices.
What is Shadow IT?
Shadow IT is the use of information technology systems, devices, software, applications, services, and/or projects that are managed outside of, and without the knowledge and explicit approval of the IT department.
Why do Employees Use Shadow IT?
Employees tend to use shadow IT for a variety of reasons, including:
- To avoid processes that slow things down
- To rely on software they’re already familiar with
- To use solutions that are compatible with mobile devices
- To work with legacy applications that are no longer supported
- To circumvent bottlenecks
- They believe approved solutions are less effective than alternatives
- They believe approved solutions are more complicated and uncomfortable to work with than alternatives
- They believe alternative solutions will improve productivity better than approved ones
The Risk of Shadow IT for Collaboration Platforms
The risks themselves of shadow IT can vary from business to business, but generally fall under the lines of:
- Oversharing
- Potential for public exposure of confidential or personal information
- Incoherent architecture
- Leakage of proprietary data
- Theft
- Accidental loss of critical data
- External reputational damage
- Failure, malfunction, or system corruption stemming from a shadow IT app or service
What is a Content Collaboration Platform?
A content collaboration platform helps organizations keep all their content, media files, and documents in one place for easy storage and retrieval. They also enable employees to share information and work through projects with one another from anywhere in the world. In current times, collaboration tools have become a key part of keeping any business competitive and will be one of the biggest factors contributing to the success of a business over the next decade.
Some of the most popular platforms include Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, and Box.
Related Reading: 5 Things to Look For in an Enterprise Content Collaboration Platform
The Role Content Collaboration Plays in Shadow IT
As employees become increasingly dependent on being able to share and collaborate on large files, companies need to provide tools that make file sharing easier and secure in order to stay compliant with privacy laws and company policies. However, due to reasons individual to each company and its employees, content collaboration can be hindered due to shadow IT if employees are choosing to use a non-approved solution.
The best content collaboration tools and strategies should simplify a users’ workday duties — not complicate them. Users aren’t likely to stray from a tool they can rely on. To combat shadow IT, one of the best tactics is to ensure you’re supplying a collaboration experience that actually delivers on its promises. This means establishing a simplified, integrated, and centralized solution that puts essential functions at the forefront.
Related Reading: Why You Need a Content Collaboration Platform
GoAnywhere MFT is a Key Content Collaboration Platform
GoAnywhere Managed File Transfer (MFT) is a secure file transfer solution that offers a variety of tools designed to make the most of your file sync, share, and collaboration needs. From sending a large ad-hoc attachment as an email link, to allowing back and forth collaboration, to revision tracking and commenting, GoAnywhere MFT helps your employees stay productive while reducing strain on your IT department. The bonus – it can help to prevent or manage the occurrence of shadow IT in your organization.
