Amidst the ever-evolving landscape of modern workplaces, characterized by the widespread adoption of disruptive technologies and flexible work arrangements, 1Password's latest report delves into the escalating tension between organizational security and employee efficiency.
The report titled "Balancing act: Security and productivity in the age of AI," underscores the challenges posed by the rapid adoption of generative AI, hybrid work models, and unauthorized applications and devices in the quest for heightened productivity.
“Since the pandemic, employees have gained unprecedented flexibility in where and how they work, and that flexibility often extends to the apps and devices they use. Productivity has become paramount, leaving significant security challenges for IT and security leaders—who often feel like they don't have bandwidth or budget to keep employees secure. When it comes to security and productivity, it shouldn't be either-or. Businesses and security providers alike need to deliver solutions that keep employees protected and productive—no matter how they prefer to work. When you secure your people, you secure your business,” said Jeff Shiner, CEO of 1Password.
Other similar reports by Valoir and Experis talk about implementing emerging technologies in the workplace, highlighting the struggles and opportunities.
The struggles of security professionals
Security professionals are struggling to manage the increasing number of new tools and technologies while safeguarding organizational integrity. However, striking a balance between security protocols and employee productivity remains a difficult achievement, with 50% of security experts conceding the near-impossibility of achieving harmony. Moreover, as many as 79% express concern over the adequacy of existing security measures, expressing regret for their reactive approach due to constant demands pulling them in different directions.
Employees focus on productivity
On the other side, employees, driven by the imperative to enhance productivity, often use unsanctioned applications and devices (34%), unaware of the potential security risks. Many employees continue to use unauthorized tools without permission, creating new security risks. Furthermore, over half (54%) of workers are not following company security policies, citing convenience and perceived inconveniences as their main reasons.
The rise of genAI
The emergence of generative AI further complicates the security-productivity dichotomy, with 92% of security professionals expressing profound apprehensions regarding its potential vulnerabilities. Despite these reservations, a considerable number of employees (57%) acknowledge the productivity gains facilitated by generative AI tools, even if it means bending come company rules, as expressed by 22% of them.
