Ever heard of BYOD (Bring Your Own Device)? Interesting concept in today’s fast paced environment. Mobile solutions like smartphones and tablets are quickly moving into the workplace. Such trends as BYOD are becoming more prominent in work policies. As a society, we seek to gather the most amount of information in the shortest amount of time. Smartphones and tablets allow us to do just that. Simply take a look around your office, the mall, or even the doctor’s office and a majority of the crowd is soaking up all the latest information via social media from their device of choice. Such devices are also convenient when traveling on business trips like conferences and other events- carrying an iPad is easier than a notebook.

The revolution of smartphones within the past 3 years has changed the way workers operate. According to a recent article in Business Insider, about 75% of enterprises now have “bring your own device” policies currently in place. The article goes on to outline how BYOD policies increase employee productivity and lower support costs. I tend to disagree. Yes, maybe employees will be constantly connected, even outside of the office. However, I think the ability to use your iPad or other tablets as a substitute for a computer given by the company may in fact lower productivity. This is based solely on opinion, but it seems as if employees will spend more time playing games on their device, engaging in social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, or managing their personal apps- all while on the clock. Of course this could still be the case with laptops or desktop computers if unmonitored by management.

I don’t disagree with this policy- I just think there are a few kinks that need to be eliminated if such workplace policies are going to be implemented. Employees should have to sign an agreement that their devices may be wiped for security reasons and be required to turn over in the event of litigation. Another potential question arises with BYOD- will companies reimburse for employee’s wireless plans and for the purchase of work related apps? This would sure eliminate the amount of expense reports floating around!