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governance issues in terms of benefit and risk rather than by device brand
or model pays off as it allows you to address BYOD requests through
firm policy. Policy, composed at that level, combined with executive
management buy-in will give you the leverage you need when someone
brings in a device that operates outside the agreed-upon acceptable
risk. You avoid appearing as if you are responding solely due to IT policy,
resource constraints or, worst of all, personal preference. Be prepared to act
swiftly by synchronizing and supporting devices that function within policy.
KEEP BYOD ON THE RADAR
In the short run, it can be difficult to resist embracing a BYOD program that
is in close alignment to each user's expectations. It can also be tempting
to avoid direct confrontations with the issue by choosing to accommodate
BYOD requests repeatedly on a "special approval" or case-by-case basis.
BYOD perceived from a largely consumer perspective brings with it rapid
challenges in adaptability and resource availability. It remains to be seen
if this can be maintained successfully. One thing is certain: BYOD, whether
in its purest form of "anything goes" or BYOD+G (plus governance and risk
mitigation), will be on our collective radar for some time to come.
A 17-year legal technology veteran, Maureen Babcock is responsible
for voice communications as well as business operations within
IT, including technology policy and process development and
improvement, for the law firm of Snell & Wilmer L.L.P. She also
serves as a senior project manager for new office openings, largescale implementations and other firm initiatives. She is currently a
member of ILTA's Risk and Records Management Peer Group Steering
Committee. Contact Maureen at mbabcock@swlaw.com.
