Key Takeaways
- Many employees use unapproved software, known as “Shadow IT,” because official company tools can be frustrating or less effective for their tasks.
- It’s generally not the complex technology behind an application, but rather its user interface and overall ease of use that matter most to people.
- Artificial Intelligence offers a breakthrough opportunity to make software incredibly personal, adapting dynamically to both individual user and broader business needs.
- By embracing AI to create genuinely better and more intuitive tools, companies can significantly reduce the problem of Shadow IT and boost employee satisfaction.
It’s quite common for people to bring their own tools to work. Chefs often prefer their personal knives, and musicians bring their own instruments. So, it’s not surprising that many office workers also have software preferences that differ from what their company provides.
This use of unapproved software, sometimes called “Shadow IT,” understandably makes IT departments nervous. They worry about security risks and how well these rogue apps will work with existing company systems. After all, software usually performs best when it’s all connected.
However, sticking to one-size-fits-all software suites from major vendors can mean missing out on the best tool for a specific job. While one program in a suite might be great, another could be lagging behind more popular alternatives. ChatGPT, for instance, has quickly become a go-to for many, often outside official channels.
Instead of simply locking down computers, which can encourage users to find workarounds, companies might consider why this happens. Most people aren’t looking for software with specific technical features; they want tools that are easy to navigate, where buttons stay in familiar places, and information is simple to find.
This focus on user experience presents a huge opportunity. Developers can now leverage Artificial Intelligence to create software that feels almost universal, or at least perfectly suited to the user. This isn’t just about adding a simple AI chatbot; it’s about weaving AI throughout the entire interface to truly enhance how people interact with their tools.
AI can enable what’s being called “hyperpersonalization.” Imagine software that doesn’t just offer a light or dark mode but adapts to your specific workflow, industry, or even current tasks. It could feel like it was purpose-built just for you and your company.
Think about tools that automatically highlight key information during reporting season or adjust visuals based on your familiarity with data. These seemingly small AI-driven tweaks can save minutes every day, adding up to significant productivity gains and much less frustration.
Consumer applications have dramatically improved their user experience, setting a high bar. According to TechRadar Pro, it’s time for business software to catch up. By thoughtfully integrating AI to make tools more sophisticated, elegant, and genuinely helpful, companies can provide software that employees actually want to use, effectively addressing the rise of Shadow IT.
