New research conducted by IDC Canada reveals that there is a rapidly growing trend of employee-owned personal computers (EOPC) infiltrating the workplace. This trend is generally referred to as the "consumerization of IT" – BYOD (bring your own device) or BYOPC (bring your own PC). This research is specific to personal computing and should not be confused with similar trends for smartphones and media tablets.
For several years, IT departments across all company sizes had to cope with rogue devices breaching their corporate networks. Typically, management has forced IT departments to support their so-called "Executive Jewelry" that they have purchased. This has now rapidly spread to all levels on the corporate ladder.
Conservative numbers from IDC suggest that Canadian businesses could save $2.2 billion dollars over the next 5 years by implementing effective EOPC or BYOPC programs.
Tim Brunt, PM personal Computing and Technology for IDC said "As the consumerization of IT becomes more widespread, PC market forecasts will have to be modified. Purchasing patterns and channel coverage will also have to acclimatize to new ways of doing business. EOPC will create an abundance of opportunities for channel partners, but at the same time, doors will close rather quickly on those who are not willing or are not prepared to adopt these changes. Channel partners should be jumping at the chance to take a central role as these trends continue to thrive."
While BYOPC can offset many upfront costs, company policies must be carefully considered, especially regarding payment and whether employee-purchased PCs will be subsidized; technical support if the device breaks; what brands are approved and where they can be acquired. Likewise, the manufacturers must work closely with their enterprise customers and channel partners to help accommodate this shift in PC purchasing. Implementing a BYOPC program may not be in the best interest for every company, however, so careful consideration to the details and how to measure a program's success will be crucial to each organization's strategy.
