Should employees bring their own computer to work?

We recently came across research that suggested that employees are more engaged with their work when they bring their own devices to work - click here to read more. Whether it is the latest iPad or bringing in a laptop, in our advancing modern society this doesn’t seem surprising. Employees are likely to be more productive if they are using equipment they are most comfortable with. Simply allowing employees to work on their own devices might demonstrate that the employer recognises the needs of the workforce and the fast moving technological advances. Plus, it cuts the computer equipment bills down by not having to fork out for the newest computer when one of your employees complain they don’t have a fancy operating system!

On the other hand, it is important to consider the health and safety aspects of this. There are legal requirements to ensure your employees are safe in work. Any equipment required for work needs to be maintained in safe condition. This could be done by administering PAT testing (which The HR Dept can do for you).

Security issues need to be considered too – if employees bring in their own pc’s etc, then they are also bringing in potential virus threats! Also, what happens if your employees take advantage and play ‘Words with Friends’ or other games on their iPad rather than working? Could this open up a can of worms?

Do you think your workforce would be more engaged if they brought their own devices to work? Leave a comment or tweet us @thehrdept