Shadow Adoption of ChatGPT: A Win for Employees, a Risk for Firms?

Shadow Adoption of ChatGPT: A Win for Employees, a Risk for Firms? A new research led by HEC Professor and Fellow at the Hi! PARIS Center - AI for Science, Business & Society, David Restrepo Amariles, sheds light on how generative AI tools like ChatGPT are being used behind the scenes in consulting firms, and the implications are complex. Key findings: • In 73% of cases, managers were unable to identify content produced with ChatGPT or other generative AI tools. • However, when AI use was disclosed, the effort behind the work was undervalued—highlighting a trust gap. • Analysts who used GPT without disclosing it were more likely to receive positive evaluations. • This leads to hidden or "shadow" adoption of AI in the workplace. The study offers four key recommendations to help organizations integrate AI tools successfully and translate individual productivity gains into company-wide benefits. The study highlights the need for clear AI policies to ensure transparency, fair recognition of effort, and better alignment across teams. Read more: https://www.hec.edu/en/news-room/new-hec-paris-research-suggests-shadow-adoption-chatgpt-could-benefit-employees-not-firms