Mobile technology plays a vital role in modern business. When used effectively, companies can yield sharp boosts in productivity, tap into the growing online market, and provide telecommuting opportunities.
As with any aspect of a business, however; one must implement the proper policies to ensure appropriate employee use and safety of company data.
Below are key pointers in developing an enforceable, manageable, and secure mobile policy for your business.
Get the right people involved
Creating a successful policy will take a team of experts, namely those in IT, human resources, and business management. These combined skill sets will ensure both your technical and workplace goals are addressed, achieving a smooth and effective policy implementation.
IT professionals can zero in on issues of security, maintenance, and device management. Those in human resources can assist in the development and distribution of your new policy, while ensuring these guidelines sit well with employees and retain a favorable workplace experience. Finally, those in your upper management can make sure these new protocols meet both user and corporate needs.
Getting people with the right skills will ensure your final policy hits all the right notes and is as effective as it is enforceable.
Realize there’s no “one-size-fits-all”
As convenient as a broad, overarching policy for all mobile users may be, workers of varying levels (and departments) in your business will have different needs.
This means that mobile requirements and restrictions may differ depending on the user. Business owners are recommended to split their workforce into three tiers: those who need access to company-provided devices, databases, and applications; those who require company devices, though not necessarily entry to private data; and those who use their own devices, with little connectivity and support from the business.
Conducting a survey among your employees can give you further insight into the individual mobile requirements of your workplace.
Prioritize security
Cybercrime is a rampant issue today, projected to cost the global market $6 trillion by 2021. Data further shows that 58% of cyberattack victims are small businesses.
As such, securing your company data should be a top priority. It helps to outline what kind of information will be made accessible on mobile devices. Then, ensure tight security measures are established, including email encryption, complex passwords, and authentication procedures. A highly regulated business may choose to restrict access to certain platforms such as social media, app stores, and camera applications on company-owned devices.
Finally, have protocols set in place in case of a data breach. Having a remote data wiping process is common for lost or stolen devices. Mobile device management (MDM) solutions do just that and can isolate compromised devices from the corporate network to minimize the impact of data breaches.
Clearly define acceptable use and consequences for noncompliance
Upon constructing your policy, ensure workers know exactly what they can and cannot do with their mobile devices. Highlight both their freedoms and restrictions, such as blocked websites or apps, disabled cameras, and access to certain company resources (i.e., calendars, emails, etc.). Explain the ramifications of noncompliance and any potential disciplinary action, such as suspended use of devices and possible termination of employment.
When enforcing new policies on common business practices, you and your employees can benefit from transparency.
Be clear with workers on your intentions for restricting and managing data access. Help them understand the purpose of such guidelines, ensuring all are aware and in agreement. Getting employees on board with not only the what but the why of your policy can foster trust and an overall more positive workplace experience.
With the proper policies in place, your business can reap the benefits of mobility while protecting critical company information. For more solutions on cybersecurity and creating seamless communication systems in your workplace, get in touch with our experts today.
