Useful Tips for Implementing a VoIP BYOD Policy
In order for businesses and employees to benefit from a cost-effective mobility solution, a VoIP BYOD policy can be implemented to protect the company and its users before giving them the tools to drive business forward with full force.
BYOD Policy Benefits
Cost Savings
Rather than buying, maintaining, and managing new phones for each every employee, a VoIP BYOD policy lets employees provide and manage their own devices—allowing companies to save serious company resources, reduce capital expenditures, and control operating costs.
Mobility
Regardless of the device covered in the BYOD plan, employees have the chance to make and take business phone calls on their personal computer, tablet, or smartphone. With a provider-specific app installed, users can take their business number anywhere they have an Internet or data connection—giving them a flexible, familiar tool that boosts employee productivity.
Compatibility
Since modern VoIP services support file sharing, directory integrations, and cross-platform communications between iOS, Android, Mac OS, and Windows devices—companies implementing a BYOD policy will have no problem supporting a mixed-brand, mixed-platform workforce.
Compliance and Security
A VoIP BYOD policy clearly defines acceptable usage, company disclaimers, support and security practices, and other areas pertaining to the user’s device, the company, and the network—protecting both employer and employee while facilitating a cost-effective and productive communications platform.
Building Your Policy
Interested in a policy? Broken into five basic categories, we’ve laid out a very general foundation for individuals interested in adopting a VoIP BYOD policy for their company. From devices to acceptable usage to compensation, here’s a quick guide to get you started looking in the right place.
Devices and Support
• Define which devices and operating systems will and will not be supported and allowed for use.
• Decide whether client or app installation and configuration will be done by authorized IT professional or user him/herself.
• Consider which situations constitute technical support on the company’s behalf or the user’s personal carrier.
Acceptable Usage
• Define what your company deems “acceptable usage.” This includes policies on (but not limited to):
– Games/recreation
– Sending, receiving, and storing inappropriate or company sensitive material
– Camera/video capabilities
– Website blockage/restrictions
• Declare which apps are required, recommended, allowed, and restricted for company use.
• Describe situations where device usage is appropriate or inappropriate (usage while driving, for example).
Device Security
• Consider the following for secure practices:
– Password recommendations/requirements
– Download/installation restrictions
– Access to company data based on user profile.
• Establish circumstances in which a data wipe is compulsory
Company Disclaimers
• Compile a list of risks and liabilities the user assumes and is responsible for.
• Define policy for lost or stolen devices.
• Define plan for employee exit.
Compensation
• Define situations or scenarios in which a user will or will not be compensated. This can include (but not limited to):
– Contributions to device cost
– Data plan reimbursement
– Supplemental charges (roaming, data overages)
Interested in a hosted VoIP BYOD policy? DOTVOX has a perfect plan for your mobile workforce here.
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