Wireless mobility is out of control in many enterprises because no policy has been created or the policy has been allowed to lapse. Enterprises need to consider that devices today have the memory and processing power of that laptops had four years ago. While the value of wireless smartdevices may quickly decline, the street value rises as data from e-mail with attachments and other information accumulates on the device.
Enterprises should work to emulate the policies they have for laptops and other mobile computers. To overcome resistance it is critical to secure executive support for policy. A quick survey of how employees use devices and the data on devices will help to support a business case for establishing more control. The policy should outline what data can be stored on devices, the applications that can be used, and the support employees can expect. The policy should also call for all toll free number and timely reporting of lost devices.
The policy should clearly define entitlements base on broad job roles for who is eligible to receive a corporate device, the types of devices, and service plans. Enterprises should follow the same approach they have established for standardizing on manufacturers' models to gain economies of scale for purchasing and supporting devices. There may be advantages to avoiding long-term contracts and keeping suppliers competing for your business. However, this should be done on your terms. When employees are able to purchase devices and service plans you lose leverage with your wireless service providers. Establishing a clear policy with executive support and consistently applying the policy will help to avoid conflicts with employees that are sure to want the latest technology.
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