There’s a well-documented phenomenon about how dogs behave when given freedom.
Take an obedient dog to a massive, open field with no fence. You’d think it would take off running, eager to explore. But instead, it hesitates—sticking close to its owner, unsure of how far it can go. With no clear boundaries, the dog self-restricts, afraid of crossing some invisible line that might bring disapproval.
Now, take that same dog to a park with a fence around the perimeter. The leash comes off, and suddenly—it sprints. It explores every corner, running freely, tail wagging, because it knows exactly where the limits are.
That fence—the very thing that looks like a restriction—actually empowers the dog.
So, what does this have to do with humans and AI?
In the workplace, AI is the open field. Employees want to explore it, but without clear guidelines, the “obedient” ones hesitate, unsure of what’s allowed.
But let’s be real—not every dog is well-trained. Some will bolt the moment they sense freedom, unaware of the dangers ahead. Likewise, some employees will dive headfirst into AI, unknowingly taking risks with serious consequences.
Too few rules? Employees feel lost, uncertain about what’s acceptable.
Now, imagine a third scenario: You take the dog to the park but leave it in a kennel. Fence or not, it can see the open space—but it’s trapped, unable to explore.
Too many rules? People feel caged, restricted from the very innovation AI could unlock.
The key to AI adoption? Structured freedom.
A clear but flexible AI policy—like a well-placed fence—allows employees to explore, experiment, and innovate confidently without wandering into dangerous territory.
Let them roam. Let them sniff around and push the boundaries. But make sure they always know where the limits are and how to return safely.
Because whether you realize it or not, Shadow AI—employees using AI tools without the company’s knowledge—is already happening. If you think otherwise, you’re kidding yourself.
So the real question is: Will your company provide a safe space to explore? Or will employees be left lost in uncertainty… or worse yet, locked in a cage, unable to do either?
Let’s talk. How is your organization handling AI adoption? 👇
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