The mobile phenomenon has morphed into so much more than simply professionals keeping track of their e-mails on the go. Today, consumers and professionals alike want to stay connected at all times. With the introduction of the capabilities of the smartphone, users want access to the same features when they are in the office. One of the best ways to deliver on this demand is BYOD.

If you aren’t familiar with this acronym, BYOD is also known as bring your own device. Companies are allowing employees to use their own devices to access the networks to stay connected, respond to messages and even access the database. To ensure these activities stay within the parameters of the corporate policy, mobile device management (MDM) is also needed.

To that end, there are four ways to manage BYOD from the standpoints of efficiency and security. While it starts with MDM, both also require a proactive approach by the IT department to ensure devices are used properly and that the network and its users are protected.

1.      Put a Policy in Place

It’s critical that IT put a policy in place for the use of mobile devices accessing the corporate network. It is OK to dictate whether or not corporate users can access Dropbox or Google (News - Alert) Drive. It’s OK to prefer they not store family pictures along with their corporate contracts. The IT team needs to be put a policy in place that dictates use and enforce that policy.

2.      Secure Users and the Network

The policy mentioned above is often put in place to secure users and the network. But the policy alone won’t do anything without the right protocols and enforcement. If the network is too vulnerable for people to access with a personal device, BYOD may not be a good option. Putting MDM in place, however, can help to ensure mobile users only access those elements of the network and the datacenter that still keep the proper protections in place.

Image via ringDNA

3.      Train Your People

Simply allowing BYOD within your corporate strategy without training and clearly explained expectations will also put you at risk. Mobile device management also will only deliver the protection and efficiencies to which it is allowed. It is impoartnt to train all users and managers on the right way to incorporate BYOD, including how policies fall into place and why they must be followed. This kind of training and buy-in is critical to success.

4.      Remote Management is Key

MDM allows for the proper remote management of these devices in the event one is stolen or lost. You don’t want anyone who gets their hands on the device to be able to access protected systems or information. Likewise, you don’t want a hacked device able to authenticate on your server. Remote management ensures your IT manager can remote wipe the device in the event of a breach. It won’t protect personal pictures, but it will protect the company.

BYOD can be a productive and beneficial strategy, as long as you follow specific guidelines to promote its use and protect the network.