Jobs: Employees should be able to use their own laptops for work

EMPLOYERS could save money if they loosen up their IT policies and let workers use their own laptops, tablets and smartphones at work, says the boss of a computing company.

Chris Papa, managing director of communications and cloud computing company Qubic, says many businesses are considering the introduction of BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) to take advantage of the benefits of new ways of working on the internet.

Cloud computing is where people and companies can use the internet to store data without the use of expensive equipment in work places.

Mr Papa, of Qubic, said: “BYOD is an incredibly useful concept. Our working patterns and environments are changing and as a result, we need access to tools that will enable us to cater for that. Accessing networks via a remote cloud system really showcases the capabilities that cloud computing provides. As long as a secure private cloud is used, and data security remains stringent, it provides a great deal of freedom for workers and can deliver cost savings for businesses in terms of equipment costs.

“BYOD will be as successful as the security that underpins it. The risks should be assessed and devices monitored. This way, employees can be productive without putting their companies in unnecessary danger.”

But Mr Papa warns there is still a large amount of awareness that needs to be created in regards to compatibility issues when it comes to using an employee’s own device to connect to a Local Area Network (LAN). It means that companies could let employees know which systems are compatible at work when they buy their private equipment.

He said: “One issue that can become problematic and can in some cases slow things down is when companies overlook the suitability of their personal devices for work, particularly when it comes to laptops. Quite often this process can be made easier at the buying stage to ensure that workers know the right equipment and specifications they should look for. Of course, current machines can be upgraded but if it is the employer left with the bill for this, it could become a stumbling block for adoption. When these aspects are taken into account, firms can benefit hugely from employees using their own devices in a professional capacity.”

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