Does your company have a Bring Your Own Device policy?
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies are increasingly popular among employers and employees alike. Many employees are more comfortable using their own devices, as it allows them remote access to work documents without the hassle of a second device. And from an employer perspective, BYOD policies cut down on hardware costs. However, they are not without drawbacks. If your business is considering adopting a BYOD policy, here are some of the issues you must take into account for implementation.
Privacy
From an employee perspective, one of the main drawbacks of a BYOD policy is infringement on their privacy. For instance, as an employer, you will need to specify ways in which you require access to company data off their private laptop. And if they leave your company, you may need to wipe their personal phone or computer to clear it of any company data. This may be worth it for your employee if it allows them more freedom, but you will need to list these expectations in your policy.
Security
Employees treat personal and work devices differently. While it may seem natural to keep a work device password protected, many people leave their phones and laptops unlocked as a matter of course. They may be more accustomed to using public WiFi, or they may be less cautious about the files they download while online. All of this can pose a significant security risk to your company data. If you chose to move forward with a BYOD policy, make sure to stipulate the security measures you expect employees to follow. You may also want to allocate time and resources for employee training to ensure they understand the importance of these measures.
Cost
BYOD policies are attractive to employers because allowing employees to use their own devices can be a cost saver. However, employees are aware of this, and some may feel you are taking advantage of them. If a BYOD policy causes the employee to incur additional expenses, such as use of data or added wear and tear on the device, the employer may be responsible for compensation. Any good BYOD policy should state these expectations up front.
Do you need help creating a BYOD policy for your business?
We can assess your business’s technology needs and help you create a plan that will meet your needs for privacy, security, and cost. In fact, our VNET Private Cloud can help maintain a healthy barrier between your employee’s private and work environments, without the need for separate computers. Contact us today to learn how our solutions can help your business succeed.
