Mobile device management in the workplace and in educational institutions are becoming a focal point. Businesses and institutions make the common mistake of trying to manage and control the individual's devices on their network instead of looking at how employees and students can improve their productivity by bringing their own devices into the workplace as well as into the education system.

An important factor that business owners and principal's need to look into, is the level of social interaction that can be allowed without influencing work productivity or studies. Will social interaction be beneficial or to the detriment of the business or institution? This generally leads to too stringent policies being enforced or on the opposite end of the scale, no control at all, and hence the failure of BYOD (bring your own device) in the workplace or educational setting. There needs to be a balance and correct systems put in place, to ensure all parties know and understand the purpose and management of the policies around BYOD.

Enterprise Mobility Management (EMM) is key in achieving this balance in supervision of BYOD in the workplace and educational system. It is not only about trying to manage and control devices, but a large part of BYOD is to educate users about the potential risks to a company as well as the individual. An effective operational system is paramount in the success of EMM and it is vital for a business or institution to be certain of the reason for BYOD to make it successful.