BYOD vs. Work Device Policies

Experts estimate that as many as 65% of employees now use their personal devices at work. Bring your own device policies, also known as BYOD, allow employees to use their own devices for work purposes. BYOD policies may allow the use of personal smartphones, tablets, laptops, or other devices for work purposes. 

As employees are returning to the workplace, many companies are revisiting their current technology policies and asking whether they are still fit for purpose. BYOD policies have pros and cons and it is vital that you weigh these up before implementing any policy within your business.

The Pros of BYOD

BYOD has been adopted as the standard policy for many companies because it has clear benefits for a business. BYOD benefits include:

  • A reduction in expenditure. Companies can take the cost of updating hardware off their books as the cost is shifted to employees. 
  • Productivity improvements. No time is being wasted with employees having to take IT training or familiarise themselves with your devices. They can also organize their devices to suit their own needs within different departments. 
  • Employee Satisfaction. Many businesses report that employees are happier using their own devices.
  • Latest Technology. Companies have access to the latest technologies as companies update their devices.

Cisco undertook extensive research and estimated that BYOD saves the average company around $350 per employee per year. If you are a medium-size company with employees who regularly use IT or smartphones, this represents a huge cost saving every year. The same report estimates that each employee also saves over an hour and twenty minutes of company time each week because they are more familiar with their device. 

BYOD Cons

However, there are currently also significant drawbacks with a BYOD policy. These drawbacks may make employers reticent to change from their current work device policy. Cons include:

  • Security Leaks. Businesses may be more prone to security leaks as employees may not install adequate security on their devices. The leak of confidential data can be damaging to many businesses. 
  • Malware. With employees using devices during their time, there is an increased chance of malware being installed on the device through unauthorized apps. Viruses are also more likely to be brought into the work environment. 
  • Lost Devices. Devices are more likely to be lost as they frequently travel between work and home. A lost device can slow down an employee’s work rate as they wait for a replacement. 
  • Operating Systems. Suddenly employers need to have IT systems that can function on numerous different types of devices and operating systems. 

If you are thinking of changing your work device system to a BYOD system for your company then you should consult with an expert IT team who can assess and mitigate any potential drawbacks. An experienced IT company in St. Louis can advise on how best to manage any transition and ensure your company doesn’t hit snags along the way as your policy shifts. 

Remember that, as with any policy change, you should build in time to allow employees to adapt to the transition.

Chris Turn
 

Chris has experience covering the latest trends in the small business world, and has a reputation for being a knowledgeable, creative and strategic blogger. He has a deep understanding of marketing and branding principles and how they can be applied to small businesses, and is able to provide actionable advice and strategies for success. Chris has interviewed industry experts and covered major marketing events such as the SXSW Interactive conference and the Advertising Week conference. He is also a successful small business owner himself, which allows him to bring a unique perspective to his blogging and writing. His blog is known for providing valuable insights and tips on how to effectively market and brand a small business.