Shadow IT refers to the use of unauthorized technology resources by business units without the approval or knowledge of the IT department. This often occurs because business units see the IT department as too slow or bureaucratic to meet their needs, or because of overzealous employees. While business units argue that Shadow IT allows them to achieve goals more quickly, IT departments counter that it poses security and operational risks to the organization. The document recommends that IT departments and business units improve communication and work together collaboratively to resolve issues with Shadow IT in a way that supports both business and technical needs.