Project Failure Files: Ignoring Shadow IT
In Episode 67 of the Project Failure Files weekly webcast, our focus was “Turning a Blind Eye to Shadow IT,” in which Sharon and I discussed how Shadow IT isn’t rebellion, but resourcefulness under pressure. When official systems can’t meet real needs—such as sharing with external vendors, moving 700MB files, or experimenting with AI—people invent workarounds. That quick fix keeps the project moving, but it also breeds hidden risk: data silos, compliance exposure, and a creeping mistrust between teams and IT.
As we discuss, the cure isn’t crackdowns—it’s conversations. Leaders who stay “curious, not furious” uncover the root causes: missing features, policy lag, or simple awareness gaps. Bring business and IT to the same table, treat shadow IT signals as product feedback, and publish clear, transparent decisions: what’s allowed, what’s not, and why. That turns governance from a wall into a bridge.
Sharon and I talk about how organizations should, operationally, make exploration safe and visible. Our advice? Run regular app inventories, invite anonymous disclosures, and offer sanctioned pilots or sandboxes so teams can test tools without risking the farm. Reward responsible innovation, not secrecy. The outcome: fewer surprises, better alignment, and a culture where people bring their best ideas into the light.
Enjoy the episode!
Be sure to tune in next Monday, December 1st at 9am Pacific for a program update on our weekly series. Hope you can join us on our NEW YouTube channel (please subscribe!), or find us on LinkedIn.
