It’s quickly becoming a common trend for workers to be allowed to use their own smartphones and tablets for work. “Bring Your Own Device,” or BYOD is an ability that isn’t in the best interest of every employee.

The Device Dilemma

BYOD can be extremely valuable to both employees and companies. It boosts productivity and cost efficiency. Employees, specifically entry level, gain a big boost in productivity as the use of devices allows them to have tools that were not previously at their disposal. Thus, they have the ability to get their work done quickly and more efficiency. This is also a benefit for the company as it doesn’t have to spend extra money on a company issued device. However, their is one major issue with using personal devices for work…

Business Before Personal

While personal devices at work boost efficiency and cost, they don’t always guarantee work is being done when it should be. With personal devices, companies don’t have the ability to monitor an employees work, and thus distractions such as Web surfing, Facebook and Netflix can quickly become a productivity killer. Also, a device such as a personal smart phone has all of the individuals personal contacts, which means the increased chances of a “check in” call from Mom, or a series of “threatening” text messages from a disgruntled spouse keeping the employee distracted from their work.

Devices Don’t “Clock Out”

When it comes to hourly workers, BYOD can bring the issue of having work following them home after they have clocked out for the day or the weekend. A series of legal issues has been brought forward regarding hourly employees at companies feeling pressure to answer company calls and emails on their personal phones when they were off the clock.

Data on the Device

While an “always on the clock” salesperson seems like a natural fit for the BYOD method, this is not necessarily the case. Clients can become comfortable with contacting that salesperson on their personal number, and if this becomes the main path of communication, if that salesperson leaves, so does that client. You also risk company and client information on the personal device to be taken with that person if and when they decide to jump ship.