Playbook

Building a shadow AI discovery program

How to identify unmanaged AI usage and convert it into a governed adoption program.

Playbook7 min readCISO, CIO

Why Shadow AI Happens

Employees use AI because it helps them move faster. Shadow AI emerges when approved tools are unclear, workflows are slow, or policies do not match how teams actually work.

Discovery Sources

Look across browser usage, SaaS destinations, extensions, copilots, model gateways, and network logs. Pair technical signals with department context so the program understands why AI is being used.

Prioritization

Rank risk by data sensitivity, destination trust, employee role, frequency, and business process. A finance prompt with customer records deserves different treatment than a public marketing brainstorm.

From Visibility to Policy

Discovery should lead to approved app lists, coaching messages, data controls, exception workflows, and executive reporting. The aim is managed AI adoption, not hidden productivity.

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