The mediating role of social presence in the relationship between shadow IT usage and individual performance: a social presence theory perspective

The use of unauthorised technologies in the workplace, called shadow IT, is increasing within organisations. Research has identified that employees frequently use unauthorised solutions to collaborate and communicate at work, which can ultimately enhance their performance. This research aims to examine the mediating role of social presence on the relationship between shadow IT usage and individual performance. We performed a survey among 286 employees from three large companies. The results show a positive relationship between shadow IT usage and social presence, suggesting that some aspects of social presence, such as perceived higher levels of sensitivity and comprehension, are significant outcomes related to the use of shadow IT. The results also provide empirical evidence to show social presence has a mediating role in the relationship of shadow IT usage and individual performance. Thereby, this research contributes by providing new insights into the consequences of shadow IT usage, and partially explaining the impact the use of shadow IT has on employee performance. In addition, the findings highlight the importance of social presence in relation to technology-mediated communication within organisations.