By: John Shepler

The concept of “Bring Your Own Device” (BYOD) can be a real headache for IT managers. While employees may enjoy the convenience, it poses a significant risk to a company’s sensitive data. When personal devices connect to the company network, carefully constructed security protocols are often bypassed. So, what can be done?

Many companies address this issue by drawing a hard line. Recognizing the challenges of managing diverse personal devices, they prohibit their use for business purposes altogether. As a compromise, they provide company-issued devices, ensuring that business operations aren’t hampered by technology restrictions. However, this approach isn’t without its drawbacks.

Smaller companies may lack the resources to provide devices for every employee. They are left to hope for the best, accepting the risks associated with unsecured personal devices. Larger companies invest in robust security measures like firewalls, hoping to safeguard their data. Despite these efforts, employees often continue using their own devices for work, both within and outside the company.

Why? Primarily because it’s more convenient and aligns with their personal preferences. Juggling multiple devices and navigating different operating systems is cumbersome. It’s simply not practical for most people.

So, is there a way to reconcile these needs and satisfy everyone? One solution is XO WorkTime, a cloud-based Unified Communications (UC) service. It seamlessly integrates a company’s communication systems with employees’ smartphones and laptops. This transforms personal devices into secure access points for company resources.

Here’s why BYOD, when properly managed with a solution like XO WorkTime, can be advantageous. First, it significantly reduces capital investment. Employees essentially cover the cost of their own devices, saving companies thousands, if not millions, of dollars.

Second, it leads to happier employees. With the need for constant device monitoring and restrictions lifted, the workplace becomes less restrictive and more relaxed. This satisfaction grows when employees experience the convenience of having their office phone functionality extended to their personal devices, allowing for seamless connectivity with colleagues and clients.

Here’s how it works: your company needs to be using one of XO’s VoIP services, such as IP Flex, IP Flex with VPN, SIP, Enterprise SIP, or Hosted PBX services. Once the XO WorkTime application is installed on employee devices, these devices essentially gain a dual persona: a work phone and a personal phone.

Personal data and applications remain untouched and entirely separate from the business side of the WorkTime app. What happens on the personal side stays private.

Similarly, all business-related activities are confined to a secure environment within the app. Encryption and VPN tunneling ensure the safe transmission of business communications, while company applications are protected by passwords.

When in WorkTime mode, employees can access their business calling plan and office number. The application provides the same calling features available in the office, such as simultaneous ringing on desk phones, smartphones, or home computers, along with presence indicators, instant messaging, and video conferencing. Local, on-net, and inbound calls are free, while long-distance calls are covered by the company plan and don’t consume personal minutes.

If you’re struggling with the financial burden and security concerns of mobile business communication, explore how XO WorkTime and other advanced hosted VoIP services can be a game-changer for your company.