More employees are using their personal technology, be it smartphone, tablet or computer, to make the workload easier. Whether it’s checking email in the field, working on a presentation at home or taking an office call while in the car, bring your own device (BYOD) initiatives are taking hold in workplaces around the globe.
According to the results of a new survey by a leading telecommunication provider, 95 percent of respondents allow employees to use personal devices in some form for work-related functions. While there are many benefits, some experts are advocating concern when implementing these new policies.
The Washington Post has a new column from J.D. Harrison, who stresses caution for companies when deploying a BYOD set-up.
“By allowing employees to bring their own devices, you introduce an element of randomness,” Harrison wrote. “Beyond the well-known Apple versus PC argument, there are also many operating systems out there. Will they be able to work with your own devices and the devices of their fellow employees? Maybe. Maybe not.”
Harrison noted the difficulties of accessing documents on different devices running different software. Formatting and compatibility issues can make it impossible to share projects.
There are also security concerns. Harrison brought up the obvious issues of hacking and viruses, but also addresses the problems that would arise if a worker lost a personal smartphone that contained confidential business information.
Harrison’s does raise valid fears. However many of them can be addressed by partnering with an experienced IT provider like CTI Technology to implement a strong infrastructure before a BYOD system causes these type of problems. The trend of personal technology in the workplace could be a fixture in future business and being prepared is the only way to avoid potential pitfalls.
Whether it’s checking email in the field, working on a presentation at home or taking an office call while in the car, bring your own device (BYOD) initiatives are taking hold in workplaces around the globe.
