In today’s fast-paced business world, employees often need to complete tasks quickly and efficiently to meet tight deadlines. However, this urgency can lead to situations where employees bypass the IT department and go around established protocols. While it may seem harmless, this behavior can have significant consequences for both employees and the organization as a whole. Let’s explore why employees circumvent IT and the potential risks involved.
The Desire for Speed and Efficiency
One of the primary reasons employees bypass IT is the need for speed. When facing time-sensitive projects or immediate work demands, employees might feel that IT processes—like waiting for approval for software installation or troubleshooting an issue—slow them down. Instead of waiting for the IT department’s intervention, they take matters into their own hands, opting for quick fixes that may not follow the company’s security policies. This often involves downloading software or accessing certain systems without consulting IT, thinking that it allows them to get back to work faster. Employees often resort to IT circumvention by employees when restrictive network policies impede their workflow efficiency. For remote team companies are using IT monitoring solutions. For example, Controlio.
Lack of Technical Understanding
Another factor that contributes to employees circumventing IT is a lack of understanding about IT protocols. Many employees are not familiar with the technical complexities of IT systems, security measures, and company guidelines. As a result, they may not see the importance of involving the IT department for every decision. In some cases, employees may view the IT team as a barrier to their productivity. They might think that they can fix minor issues on their own, such as resetting passwords or installing software, without understanding the security risks they are introducing.
Inadequate IT Support
Sometimes, employees bypass IT because they feel the support provided by the IT department is inadequate. Long response times, a lack of resources, or slow troubleshooting can lead to frustration. If employees perceive IT support as unhelpful or unavailable when needed, they may decide to take shortcuts or find alternative ways to resolve issues without IT involvement. While these shortcuts may seem to work temporarily, they often lead to more significant problems down the line.
Concerns Over IT’s Role in Job Functions
Employees might also feel that IT is too involved in their daily tasks and that IT’s role is more of a hindrance than a help. For example, IT might restrict access to certain websites or software, making employees feel that their ability to do their job is being restricted. To regain a sense of control, employees may attempt to bypass IT controls by using personal devices, apps, or other workarounds.
The Risks of Circumventing IT
While circumventing IT might seem like a quick fix, it can have severe consequences for the organization. One of the primary risks is a security breach. When employees download unauthorized software or access unsecured websites, they may inadvertently introduce malware or create vulnerabilities in the company’s systems. These risks are compounded when employees use personal devices for work purposes, as these devices may not be equipped with the necessary security measures.
Additionally, bypassing IT can lead to data management issues. IT teams are responsible for ensuring that all systems are working correctly, that data is securely backed up, and that software and hardware are up-to-date. When employees make changes to systems without IT knowledge, it can lead to data loss, inefficiencies, or even system crashes, all of which can disrupt business operations.
How to Address the Issue?
Organizations can take several steps to prevent employees from circumventing IT and ensure smoother workflows. Firstly, improving communication and collaboration between IT and other departments can help build trust and understanding. IT teams can offer more user-friendly solutions and provide quicker support to employees, reducing the temptation to bypass them.
Secondly, companies can implement training programs that educate employees about the importance of IT security and the risks involved in circumventing protocols. This training should emphasize the role IT plays in protecting the organization and how employees can work together with IT to resolve issues efficiently.
Lastly, streamlining IT processes and reducing unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles can make it easier for employees to get the support they need without feeling like they are being slowed down. By ensuring that IT support is readily accessible and responsive, businesses can create an environment where employees feel comfortable relying on IT without resorting to workarounds.
While it’s understandable that employees may circumvent IT to get their job done faster, it’s important to recognize the risks involved. By fostering better communication, providing adequate support, and educating employees about the importance of following IT protocols, businesses can strike a balance between efficiency and security. Ultimately, the goal should be to create an environment where IT is seen as a partner in achieving business objectives, rather than an obstacle to success.