Internet of Things

IoT Consumerisation in the Workplace: Risks vs Rewards

February 24, 2024

IoT Consumerisation in the Workplace: Risks vs Rewards

Introduction

The Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming the workplace. As more employees bring consumer IoT devices like smartwatches and fitness trackers into the workplace, significant risks and rewards are emerging. In this article, I will analyze the key pros and cons organizations must weigh when embracing IoT consumerisation in the workplace.

Pros of Allowing Consumer IoT Devices

Increased Employee Productivity

Consumer IoT devices can make employees more productive in several ways:

Time management – Smartwatches enable employees to view calendar appointments and reminders discreetly. This helps them stay on task.
Health tracking – Fitness bands promote healthy habits. More active and energetic employees tend to be more engaged and productive.
Stress management – Some smartwatches and fitness bands provide breathing exercises, heart rate monitoring and other features to help employees manage stress. Lower stress leads to higher productivity.
Workflow support – Voice assistant devices like Amazon Alexa allow employees to take notes, set reminders and automate routine tasks hands-free. This streamlines workflows.

Greater Employee Satisfaction

Allowing employees to use their favorite consumer gadgets at work can improve satisfaction and engagement:

Convenience – Employees appreciate being able to access their smart devices seamlessly at work. This perk improves quality of life.
Sense of control – Using personal devices gives employees greater control over their environment and routines. This fosters empowerment.
Personalization – Consumer IoT devices contain personalized data, preferences and capabilities tailored to each employee. This creates a sense of ownership.
Novelty – Interacting with the latest consumer gadgets stimulates the mind. Employees enjoy learning and experimenting with new IoT tools.

Stronger Company Branding

Allowing consumer tech makes a company seem progressive and creative. This appeals to top talent, especially millennials and Gen Zers. Being IoT-friendly can make recruiting easier.

Risks of Allowing Consumer IoT Devices

Security Vulnerabilities

Consumer IoT devices tend to prioritize convenience over security. They can expose company data networks to risks:

Malware – Smartwatches and fitness bands can easily get infected with viruses and malware. Once on the network, malware can spread rapidly.
Data leaks – Many consumer IoT devices sync data to the cloud. If improperly configured, they could accidentally send company data externally.
Unauthorized access – Voice assistants may grant access to unauthorized users. Negligent employees could also compromise passwords.

Distractions in the Workplace

Consumer IoT devices offer many notifications and alerts that may distract employees:

Smartphone syncing – Incoming calls, texts and app notifications from synced smartphones interrupt focus.
Alert overload – Fitness bands buzz throughout the day with step counts and other updates. These constant distractions hamper productivity.
Multitasking temptation – Having smartwatches and other devices enables employees to discretely multitask. They may overindulge in digital distractions.

Health Risks

Some consumer IoT devices may negatively impact employee health:

Eyestrain – Smartwatches encourage employees to frequently check tiny screens. This can cause visual fatigue and headaches.
Anxiety and stress – Employees may become overwhelmed tracking various metrics 24/7 via wearable devices. Information overload heightens anxiety.
Sleep interference – IoT devices with bright displays and notifications can disrupt natural sleep cycles, especially if allowed in bedrooms. Poor sleep harms concentration during work hours.
Reduced physical activity – Some employees may rely heavily on fitness trackers and neglect regular exercise. Data can’t replace doing. This could worsen health over time.

Key Considerations for Allowing Consumer IoT

Organizations navigating consumer IoT in the workplace should:

Conduct risk assessments – Thoroughly evaluate IoT-related cyber risks and create security policies. Control device access.
Educate employees – Train employees on cyber hygiene and avoiding distractions. Set expectations.
Promote healthy habits – Encourage employees to use IoT devices to supplement, not replace, exercise and good sleep routines.
Monitor impacts – Continuously gather feedback on consumer IoT’s effects on productivity, health, safety and culture.
Remain flexible – Review policies frequently. Adjust rules around emerging technologies as new evidence warrants change.

Conclusion

Consumer IoT offers both significant upsides and downsides for today’s increasingly connected workplaces. With careful policies and engaged employees, organizations can maximize the benefits of consumer technologies while minimizing the risks. By keeping a pulse on evolving impacts and attitudes, companies can craft a smart, sustainable approach to IoT consumerisation.