18.12.13
‘Bring your own device’ set to grow – Socitm
The use of ‘Bring your own device’ (BYOD) is set to grow in local public services, a new report from Socitm suggests.
The document sets out details of the associated risks and benefits of BYOD, as well as case studies of how councils are implementing new policies to maintain security.
BYOD can make employees happier and more productive, as well as offering cost benefits. But it can present “a huge security headache”, Socitm said, as users tend to focus on performance over security.
Policies and formal agreements should be developed to cover usage and practice of BYOD, and involve HR, finance and legal specialists as well as IT managers, the report recommends.
It indicates that BYOD is “not going to fade from fashion” and says that every local public service organisation needs to work out its own solution.
Martin Greenwood, programme manager for Socitm Insight, said: “Individuals have become tech savvy and will look to circumvent ICT policies if they feel they are being hindered from doing their job.
“Socitm benchmarking data shows a significant drop in user satisfaction with ICT services where restrictions on flexible practices like BYOD have been imposed to allow connection to the Public Services Network (PSN).
“Socitm is continuing to work with the Cabinet Office, its members and suppliers to resolve these obstacles to rapid adoption of BYOD by local public services.”
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