Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights

89% of AI Use Hidden from IT, Salesforce's AgentExchange Launch, Microsoft’s New AI Tools

Mar 6, 2025

A staggering 89% of AI usage within enterprises happens without IT's knowledge, posing major security risks. Many employees rely on personal accounts, risking data leaks and compliance failures. Meanwhile, a disconnect remains between leaders and staff on AI adoption, with many feeling undertrained. Recent innovations from Salesforce and Microsoft are set to reshape business processes, while governance challenges highlight the need for better oversight. As organizations navigate these waters, the urgent call for training and improved policies cannot be ignored.

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INSIGHT

Shadow AI Usage

89% of enterprise AI use is hidden from IT, creating security risks from data leaks.
Employees use personal accounts for AI tools, bypassing organizational oversight.

ADVICE

MSP Opportunity in AI

MSPs can help organizations manage AI security risks and improve AI adoption.
They can offer training, digital adoption services, and change management.

INSIGHT

Visibility vs. Control

Increased visibility into AI tool usage doesn't equal control over employee behavior.
Employees often prioritize easy-to-use tools, even if unapproved by IT.

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Employees are increasingly using artificial intelligence (AI) tools without the oversight of their IT departments, leading to significant security risks for organizations. A report by LayerX reveals that 89% of enterprise AI usage occurs outside IT visibility, with many employees accessing these tools through personal accounts. This lack of oversight raises concerns about data leakage, as corporate data is frequently pasted into AI applications. Additionally, a report by WalkMe highlights a disconnect between business leaders and employees regarding AI adoption, with many employees feeling inadequately trained and only a quarter noticing efficiency improvements.

The findings underscore a dual crisis of visibility and adoption in AI technology. Organizations may invest in AI solutions, but the gap between employee usage and IT oversight creates risks of data leaks and compliance failures. Providers have an opportunity to help organizations regain control through better governance models and security policies. Furthermore, the report indicates that many employees are not ready to utilize AI effectively, leading to wasted potential and significant financial losses.

Recent announcements from major tech companies highlight the growing integration of AI into business processes. Salesforce has launched AgentExchange, a marketplace for digital labor solutions, while Microsoft is set to release new software agents for its Dynamics 365 and Microsoft 365 platforms. These developments point to a strategic move towards automating business functions and improving efficiency. Additionally, Microsoft's Dragon Copilot aims to streamline administrative tasks in healthcare, showcasing the potential for AI to enhance productivity in specific industries.

The podcast also discusses advancements in AI models, including OpenAI's GPT-4.5 and Microsoft's new local AI models, which democratize access to powerful machine learning capabilities. The collaboration between Snowflake and Microsoft aims to address data governance and security challenges in deploying generative AI. Meanwhile, Anthropic's recent funding success raises questions about the sustainability of AI valuations. The episode concludes with a look at the impressive realism of AI voices developed by Sesame and the anticipated upgrades to Apple's Siri, emphasizing the ongoing evolution of AI technology and its implications for businesses.

Four things to know today

00:00 Employees Secretly Chatting with AI Behind IT’s Back Salesforce Opens AI Marketplace, Microsoft Sends Digital Helpers to Work; MSPs, Time to Get

05:48 Those Bots on the Payroll!

09:28 AI Hits Home as Microsoft and Snowflake Empower Local Models; Meanwhile, Anthropic Bags Billions—But Is the AI Bubble Ready to Pop?

13:24 AI Voices Get So Real Users Catch Feelings—Apple Promises Siri’s Glow-Up, but Don’t Hold Your Breath Until 2027

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