BYOD and Wearables

Bring Your On Device (BYOD)

BYOD is a concept in the workplace where employees use personal devices to access work information and increase productivity. These devices are used at home, on the go, or even in the office. As predicted by eMarketer, wearable device connections are expected to increase 704.5% by 2018. This trend can be leveraged by associations and their members to their advantage.

Individuals can interact with relevant resources and information using the interface they are most comfortable with wherever they may be. With the diversity of mobile devices and mobile accessories growing, it is important to develop strategies that encourage members to utilize the best tools for them in order to accomplish their goals. Even though offering resources and tools online can be useful, it’s only beneficial if they work on the devices your association members are using daily.

Wearable Technology

In February, the annual Mobile World Congress was held in Barcelona, Spain. This event hosts the world’s largest mobile exhibition and conference of prominent executives in this industry. With more than 85,000 guests from over 200 countries, attendees experienced opportunities in knowledge, product showcasing, networking, and even innovation. Among the current and popular trends at the MWC 2014 is wearable technology.

Wearable technology, or wearables for short, refers to devices that incorporate computer and electronic technologies. These designs usually offer functional features that can be used to benefit one’s daily activities. Google Glass is one of the most well-known devices of this kind, which provides users an augmented reality through hands-free displaying of information and Internet communication. This technological trend has been adapted by several mobile developers, who are essentially creating companion devices. As stated in an Ad Age article, “Smart watches and wristbands have been joined by connectable fabrics and earphones, and all devices connect to cloud services, which provide utility to the consumer.”

Connections

Over the past few years, mobility has greatly changed the meeting planning process for event planners. Attendees can now use mobile apps for events and conferences to access the agenda, find exhibitors, register and check in, and so much more. Eventually, smartphones, tablets, and laptops won’t be the only connected devices at meetings.

An Associations Now article describes how, “…planners will have to start thinking about integrating all types of ‘things’ that connect with the internet—glasses, bracelets, watches—into the meeting mix to appropriately direct attendee attention toward the meeting content and programming.” With connections between wearable devices and mobile technology increasing, user possibilities will seem endless in due time.

How can you utilize these BYOD programs and wearable functions for your association?