Enterprises challenged by mobility: IDC

CIOs and IT directors need to better accommodate the deep penetration of personal mobile devices within their organisations, according to industry analyst IDC.

"CIOs are faced with a massive challenge. Mobility is happening, whether they like it or not," said Warren Chaisatien, senior analyst of mobile and wireless solutions at IDC, in a statement.

Mobile devices -- such as laptops, smartphones and handheld devices -- have a huge impact on the enterprise operations. 

However, vice president of mobile and enterprise solutions at Nokia, Bob Brace, believes we are yet to see the real benefits. "It is estimated that around 30 percent of the workforce is mobile, yet only a small number of executives have access," Brace said.

Chaisatien identified the key issues for organisations being the management, integration, and support of the technology, as well as security, ROI, and staff training.

"It's a huge issue for enterprises, but the sooner they address it the more secure their enterprises will be and the more effective their key mobile professionals can function, which will improve the bottom line of the smart enterprise," Chaisatien said.

"Enterprises should look at mobility as part of their current and future business strategy," Brace said.

"The less complex the solution is, the less problems organisations will face, and the more successful the implementation will be," he added.

He also argued that there was much to be gained from the mobile enterprise. "...not only tangible results such as ROI and increased productivity, but also happier employees who have the freedom to work from anywhere, anytime, on devices that they choose."