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joltsik
Contributing Writer

Enterprises Are Embracing Mobile Devices

Analysis
Aug 04, 20102 mins
AndroidCisco SystemsData and Information Security

An ESG Research survey of 174 IT professionals shows that mobile devices aren't just for email anymore

The latest iPhone commercials feature video calls and multiple couples sharing intimate moments. When describing Google Android, wireless carrier Sprint talks about, “the apps you crave.” Microsoft’s latest pitch is that Windows Mobile phones fold neatly into social networking.There are a few common themes here. Each vendor is targeting consumers with whiz-bang functionality and lots of applications. Video capabilities are highlighted in all cases. Given this focus, you would think that mobile devices = consumer devices but this is not the case. Enterprises are also running to and jumping on the mobile device bandwagaon in a big way.ESG Research surveyed 174 IT professionals about their organizations’ adoption and use of mobile devices. Here are a few data points that illustrate growing mobile device usage in the enterprise.Question 1. What is your organization’s spending plans for mobile devices and mobile device support?37% spending will increase significantly45% spending will increase moderately14% spending will stay flat3% spending will decrease1% don’t knowQuestion 2. How important are mobile devices to your organization’s business processes and productivity?38% critical48% important11% somewhat important1% not important today but will be important in the future1% not important today or in the future1% don’t knowQuestion 3: Does your organization develop, or plan to develop, specific applications for mobile devices?28% already develop applications for mobile devices34% plan to develop applications for mobile devices26% no plans at this time but interested in developing apps. 11% no plans or interest in developing apps.1% don’t knowIn summary, enterprises are spending more on mobile devices and device support, they believe these devices are “critical” or “important” for the business, and most already develop mobile device applications or plan to do so.Sounds to me like every IT vendor in the endpoint (PC, laptop, mobile device), network, security, management, and application markets should have a mobile device strategy. Those that either haven’t developed or articulated their strategies are way behind.

joltsik
Contributing Writer

Jon Oltsik is a distinguished analyst, fellow, and the founder of the ESG’s cybersecurity service. With over 35 years of technology industry experience, Jon is widely recognized as an expert in all aspects of cybersecurity and is often called upon to help customers understand a CISO's perspective and strategies. Jon focuses on areas such as cyber-risk management, security operations, and all things related to CISOs.

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