The relationship between organisational structural factors and strain towards shadow information technology usage among Nigerian employees

Shadow information technology (Shadow IT) usage is a deviant behaviour within information systems (IS) where employees use unauthorised information technology (IT) tools in their official activities. This behaviour is linked to various IS security concerns, including infiltration, breaches, and misalignment with organisational goals. This research empirically examines employee Shadow IT usage through strain theory, which explains how organisational disparities influence strain and deviant behaviours. The study explores the relationship between organisational structural factors, strain, and Shadow IT usage by applying strain theory to IS. This objective was achieved by developing an extended strain theory model incorporating four key structural factors: IT accessibility, security education, training and awareness (SETA), work pressure, and work overload. These factors are assessed as precursors to both strain and Shadow IT usage. Thirteen hypotheses were formulated based on the developed model and tested quantitatively, with data collected from 345 employees in Nigeria. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) using SmartPLS4 software was employed for the analysis. The results reveal that IT accessibility, work overload, and work pressure significantly influence Shadow IT usage, while IT accessibility and SETA also directly impact strain. Furthermore, strain mediates the relationships between IT accessibility, SETA, and Shadow IT usage. This research contributes to IS literature by incorporating strain theory as a theoretical framework. The findings suggest that organisations should enhance structural factors to foster a supportive work environment and reduce work-related strain. The recommendations include upgrading IT systems, implementing effective knowledge-sharing practices, establishing robust IS frameworks, and nurturing positive workplace relationships. Such measures may help streamline tasks, provide cognitive support, and reduce employee strain and the inclination toward Shadow IT usage