How Ivanti Secures AI by Treating Tools Like New Employees
Ivanti is a global enterprise IT and security software provider that manages, protects, and automates technology for customers worldwide. With half of its employees and customers outside the US and 18 offices in 23 nations, Ivanti supports diverse sectors, from major real estate brands to regional health systems and consumer product firms.
The Current State of Enterprise AI Adoption
Enterprise AI adoption is transitioning from a phase of hype-driven experimentation to a more thoughtful, integrated, and outcome-focused execution. Many organizations initially rushed to deploy AI to keep pace with competitors, often prioritizing speed over strategy and governance. This led to a proliferation of underwhelming tools and siloed systems, resulting in what is referred to as AI slop.
As expectations collided with reality, organizations began to realize that having AI alone does not create an advantage; rather, how it is deployed is critical. Currently, there is a necessary recalibration where companies are taking a more deliberate approach, aligning AI investments with real business outcomes, strengthening governance, and focusing on sustainable impacts rather than novelty.
Addressing Employee Anxiety Around AI
Research highlights growing employee anxiety around AI, which leaders must address as a strategic priority. This concern is not mere resistance; it signals that employees seek clarity, guardrails, and confidence in responsible AI implementation. At Ivanti, a balance between security and enablement has been achieved through the establishment of an AI Governance Council.
This council defines acceptable and prohibited use cases, allowing employees a transparent path to submit AI tools for review. The aim is not to stifle innovation but to enable it safely and responsibly. Education plays a crucial role, providing employees with specific, actionable training on AI risks and security implications.
The Importance of Transparency in AI
Transparency is foundational to responsible AI. Without it, risks multiply silently. Findings reveal that nearly a third of individuals using generative AI tools at work keep their usage hidden from management. This can lead to unmonitored sharing of company data or intellectual property, exposing sensitive information.
Rather than banning AI tools, which may encourage employees to hide their use, leaders should assess secure platforms and offer sanctioned options that both employers and employees can trust.
Cultivating a Culture of Trust Around AI
A genuine culture of trust around AI starts with clarity and safety, not control. Employees require an understanding of the real risks associated with AI, explained in practical terms. When leaders clarify the purpose of governance and how it protects both the business and employees, AI governance becomes an enabler of safer innovation.
Building AI fluency is essential for the next generation of leaders, as the ability to use AI thoughtfully will become a defining advantage in the job market. Investing in apprenticeships, mentorship programs, and hands-on learning opportunities helps employees gain real-world experience with AI.
Treating AI Like an Employee
Treating AI like an employee means formally evaluating every AI tool before introduction, assigning clear management, and continuously monitoring its use. This includes defining what each tool is allowed to do, where it can be used, and who is accountable for its outcomes.
Just as employees require role clarity and supervision, AI systems do too. Ongoing reviews ensure tools evolve with business needs, security requirements, and ethical standards. By governing AI like part of the workforce, organizations can ensure accountability and integration, ultimately supporting the people they are designed to help.
