Matt McLarty’s article “BYOD is unstoppable. Smart companies must build apps” on Gigaom.com earlier this week reinforces the prevailing mindset that the bring-your-own-device trend is going to have to be accepted by companies. McLarty, like many others in the IT industry, believes mobile is going to “dominate enterprise IT transformation over the next decade.”
Mobile domination is obvious. Our society, both professionally and (especially) personally, is driven by the proliferation of mobile devices. Mobile devices dominate the workplace because they are portable, convenient, increase productivity and are supported by a seemingly never ending supply of apps to enhance business functions, making the BYOD trend just like the mobile devices themselves–smart. As a result, smart phones and tablets are the norm rather than the exception. McLarty’s article focuses on how to integrate enterprise applications on mobile platforms to meet the demands of a seamless user experience so productivity is not affected. While the need for smart and secure apps is important, it is just as important to plan for responsible mobile asset management. This is the most often overlooked component of BYOD.
Mobile devices are refreshed at a much faster rate than traditional desktop and laptop computers. With a shorter lifespan, companies with BYOD programs need to be concerned with the end-of-life disposition of these products. Mobile devices represent a significant data security issue for the enterprise and identity security for the individual. Smart phones store as much or more data than a computer. Old mobile devices also carry risk in the form of personal or corporate data remaining on the phone after it is no longer in use.
Responsible mobile asset management ensures no personal or corporate data ever falls into the wrong hands and that the proper data erasure measures are taken. Strategically partnering with an IT and mobile asset management provider addresses the challenges of erasing data from a vast area of makes and models of cellular phones and mobile devices, including phones, SIM cards, and flash cards. This data is purged in a safe and secure environment so the devices can be reenter the marketplace or be recycled responsibly.
Partnering with an ITAM provider allows companies to provide a green service to their employees by encouraging them to recycle their mobile devices, either through a collection or buyback program. These services provide the benefit of peace of mind when data is destroyed responsibly.
To learn more about how a mobile asset management program can enhance your company’s BYOD program, including how it can help fund a corporate sustainability program, contact HOBI here.
