Most of us understand the importance of mobile device security and the challenge it presents today’s companies. But as the use of private mobile devices to access corporate information and services continues to grow exponentially, awareness is no longer the main concern; implementation of procedures and policies along with clear employee communication of expectations are at the forefront of our focus. In fact, Gartner’s Principal Research Analyst Meike Escherich stated:
“One of the biggest challenges for IT leaders is making sure that their users fully understand the implications of faulty mobile security practices and to get users and management to adhere to essential steps which secure their mobile devices. For many organizations, overcoming BYOD security challenges is a full-time task, with a host of operational issues.”
It’s no secret that employees generally fear change, nor does their pushback to device enrollment come as a surprise to IT teams overseeing enterprise mobility strategy implementation. After all, many employees can’t truly comprehend the risks the company takes on when allowing BYOD (bring your own device). What they DO see instead is someone else having the authority to manage security on their personal mobile device, which can feel very “Big Brother.” To help lessen the impact of that feeling and enhance the value of education and training, straightforward communication is critical.
From sharing mobile device security best practices to signing user release agreements and distributing mobile device usage policies (MDUP), there may be several steps necessary to gaining user buy-in while protecting the company’s interests. At TechOrchard, we have found that companies who can educate their employees successfully on the following things tend to experience the best results:
- How Enterprise Mobility Management (EMM) provides a meaningful way to secure both company-owned and BYOD devices
- What the company’s EMM solution does and does NOT do
- How it protects the company and, most importantly to users, their personal identity
The educational process and information sharing doesn’t have to be something you and your staff dread. Rather, you can keep it light and engaging through a series of email announcements, company signage cards, enrollment events, Q&A sessions, Support Desk Assistance highlights and other marketing ideas. Plus, getting your marketing team involved in the execution immediately generates another group of employees who are one step closer to being “on board.” If you plan well, you’ll find quicker and easier adoption and a more educated workforce who will enhance your overall data security posture while being able to increase their productivity.
Remember, your MDUP are only valuable if they’re being followed. When you decide it’s time to start protecting and managing data and access through mobile devices, contact us for help developing a marketing and communications plan to make the transition seamless.
Phil Poje | CEO, TechOrchard
A serial entrepreneur with more than 30 years of executive leadership and ownership experience, Phil has a unique understanding of the challenges that exist within the rapidly growing technology sector. Contact him directly at phil@techorchard.com to discuss innovative ways for overcoming those challenges and propelling your organization to new levels of success.
