Mobility benefits put at risk by companies' inattention to work-life balance and security issues

The research, which includes a global survey of 316 executives conducted in January 2013 and in-depth interviews with mobility experts, indicates that companies still have considerable work to do to manage these cultural shifts, address the security issues and make policy changes. Those who overcome these challenges will reap the full benefits of the mobile revolution.

The key findings include:
· Employees and employers alike are embracing the benefits of a highly connected work style. Almost one-half (49%) of survey respondents say that using mobile devices boosts innovation, and many feel they are more on top of their jobs (39%) and more efficient (37%). They also say mobility is making their companies more dynamic and innovative (49%) and improving communications (42%). Organisational structures are becoming flatter and less hierarchical.
· Personal and work lives continue to blur—for good and ill. Today’s workers are embracing the flexibility, freedom and productivity improvements that come with mobility, but many struggle with the increased intrusion of work into personal time. Only 33% of respondents say their work-life balance has improved and a mere 29% believe that they set effective boundaries.
· Security knowledge is lacking. Executives are worried about mobile security and privacy, yet lack security knowledge, suggesting workplace training is inadequate. Communication of company policies is often passive and enforcement anaemic. More executives believe these policies reflect compliance needs (58%) than actual risks (49%), and nearly one in four (23%) admit to skirting the rules.
· Companies are embracing mobility, but offer limited support for personal devices. Some 58% of respondents say their company provides job-related mobile apps. Yet only 51% rate IT support for employee-owned mobile devices that are used for work as “strong” or “very strong”.