The rise of Low-Code/No-Code platforms has revolutionized the way businesses approach application development and deployment. These platforms enable non-technical users to create and deploy applications without extensive coding knowledge, increasing productivity and reducing the burden on IT departments. However, this newfound freedom has also led to the emergence of Shadow IT, where unauthorized applications and deployments operate outside the purview of IT management. In this blog post, we will explore the implications of Low-Code/No-Code platform Shadow IT on deployment and operations, and discuss strategies for tackling this growing concern.

The Rise of Low-Code/No-Code Platforms

Low-Code/No-Code platforms have gained significant traction in recent years, with the market expected to grow to $15.2 billion by 2025 [1]. These platforms provide a user-friendly interface for creating and deploying applications, reducing the need for extensive coding knowledge. This has democratized application development, enabling non-technical users to create and deploy applications that meet their specific needs.

However, the ease of use and rapid deployment capabilities of Low-Code/No-Code platforms have also led to the emergence of Shadow IT. Shadow IT refers to the unauthorized use of applications and infrastructure outside the control of IT management. This can lead to security vulnerabilities, data breaches, and compliance issues, compromising the integrity of an organization’s IT systems.

The Impact of Shadow IT on Deployment and Operations

Shadow IT can have a significant impact on deployment and operations, compromising the efficiency and effectiveness of an organization’s IT systems. Here are some of the key concerns:

  • Security Risks: Shadow IT can introduce security vulnerabilities into an organization’s IT systems, increasing the risk of data breaches and cyber attacks. According to a recent study, 77% of organizations have experienced a security breach due to Shadow IT [2].
  • Compliance Issues: Unauthorized applications and deployments can compromise an organization’s compliance with regulatory requirements, leading to fines and reputational damage.
  • Inefficient Use of Resources: Shadow IT can lead to inefficient use of resources, as duplicate applications and services are created and deployed without proper management.

Tackling Shadow IT: Strategies for Deployment and Operations

To tackle Shadow IT and ensure efficient deployment and operations, organizations can implement the following strategies:

1. Establish Clear Governance Policies

Establishing clear governance policies is essential for tackling Shadow IT. Organizations should define clear criteria for application development and deployment, ensuring that all projects are properly approved and managed. This includes setting up a centralized repository for applications and services, ensuring that all deployments are properly tracked and monitored.

2. Implement Low-Code/No-Code Platform Management

Implementing Low-Code/No-Code platform management is critical for tackling Shadow IT. Organizations should select a Low-Code/No-Code platform that provides robust management and governance capabilities, including application deployment, security, and compliance management. This includes setting up proper access controls, ensuring that only authorized users can create and deploy applications.

3. Monitor and Track Deployments

Monitoring and tracking deployments is essential for identifying and mitigating Shadow IT. Organizations should use tools and technologies to track deployments, identifying unauthorized applications and services. This includes using monitoring and logging tools to track application usage and performance.

4. Educate and Train Users

Educating and training users is critical for preventing Shadow IT. Organizations should provide users with proper training and support on Low-Code/No-Code platforms, ensuring that they understand the risks and benefits of Shadow IT. This includes providing clear guidelines on application development and deployment, ensuring that users understand the importance of compliance and security.

Conclusion

Low-Code/No-Code platform Shadow IT is a growing concern that can have significant implications for deployment and operations. By establishing clear governance policies, implementing Low-Code/No-Code platform management, monitoring and tracking deployments, and educating and training users, organizations can tackle Shadow IT and ensure efficient deployment and operations. We invite you to share your thoughts on Low-Code/No-Code platform Shadow IT in the comments below. How is your organization addressing Shadow IT?

References:

[1] MarketsandMarkets. (2020). Low-Code Development Platform Market by Component, Application, Deployment Mode, Organization Size, Industry Vertical, and Region - Global Forecast to 2025.

[2] Cybersecurity Insiders. (2020). 2020 Shadow IT Report.