Should You Bring Your Own Device?

Many businesses are warming up to BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) programs. There are many ups and downs when it comes to implementing this type of program. We’ll discuss the pros and cons to help you decide if BYOD is right for you.

With BYOD programs, employees provide their own devices and pay out of pocket for the device, service, and other associated expenses. While some may think that this would upset employees, they are actually happy to foot the bill.

Because of this, BYOD contributes to worker satisfaction. Rather than being stuck with company-provided equipment, workers are able to choose the device they want and are most comfortable using. It also allows them to customize their options with headsets or Bluetooth options. Overall, BYOD gives employees more flexibility to work remotely, creatively, and quickly.

In addition, BYOD devices are often the more advanced, latest versions, giving the business the benefits of cutting edge technology and features. And users are great at keeping their devices up-to-date, unlike the delayed refresh cycles for most companies.

On the other hand, the hesitation for most is the security risk. Without a well thought out policy, businesses may lose the control over the IT hardware and how it is used as it can get tricky trying to tell the user what they can and cannot do with their own device.

Before implementing a BYOD program, a clearly defined policy is necessary. It needs to include expectations, as well as minimum security requirements, which can include mandating company-sanctioned security tools as a condition for allowing personal devices to connect to company data and network resources.

Another concern is related to compliance and data ownership. For businesses that fall under compliance mandates (ex. PCI DSS, HIPAA, GLBA), the rules apply regardless of whether the data is on a company computer in office or on a laptop owned by an employee.

This becomes even more complicated when it comes to workers who are let go or leave the company of their own accord. There should be a policy in place that details how the data will be retrieved from the personal device.

Considering these things, would you adopt a BYOD plan for your business? For those already executing it, do you have any tips or advice for others? Share with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.

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