“Consumerization”, a new term coined in the technology arena, is allowing employees to use their PCs at work. Basically, they are able to use computers that are comfortable to them. Consumerization may not be revolutionary but I still think it is breaking new ground in the technology world. Many companies are facing questions from employees about why they can’t use their personal smart phones or PCs for the job. Although security continues to be a major challenge, some companies are considering consumerization.
The Colt Group, a British telecommunications company, is embracing consumerization as a model. They use cloud-based or elastic computing models and virtual desktop technology to enable their enterprise network to overcome these issues and allow employees to use their own PCs. They also deliver all their corporate systems in a virtual desktop. To date, two-thirds of their employees are virtual desktop users. Colt employees can use a thin client or their own PCs connect to the company systems (via the cloud) at work. Colt also compensates them to cover device wear and tear and insurance. With the onslaught of telework or telecommute, this model may be a remedy for some firms who face similar problems.
Like the Colt Group, consumerization can certainly reduce infrastructure footprint along with a substantial maintenance savings. This concept may be ideal for small to medium businesses…I don’t see it happening in large or enterprise-like companies. The Colt Group is also pursuing a slightly more complicated plan for people who don't have a PC yet or whose PC is old. They are looking at a considering a process where they can subsidize individuals who purchase computing devices.
Maybe the concept of consumerization will be infectious in the future and perhaps change the way people consume their technology at work…
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