SME mobile device spending on the rise

Mobile devices have gone beyond mere consumer electronics to become a must-have in the work environment as well. With smartphones and tablets being able to run increasingly complicated software, the workplace is slowly changing to accommodate these devices.

According to research collected by SMB Group, median spending by SMEs on technology purchases has been increasing over the years, from 12 per cent in 2013 to 16 per cent last year. With most technology however, the original purchase is not the only associated cost. 

Smartphones and tablets require data plans and telecommunication services to run, and major software upgrades may necessitate server and general internet infrastructure maintenance within a business to be effective.

The trend arises from the fact that mobile devices are not just complementing existing IT infrastructures within SMEs, but often replacing them completely. This is especially true for businesses relying on social media content, where smartphones and tablets are often more than capable of performing as needed thanks to specialised apps.

To ensure that your budget can cover the increased investment in mobile technologies, it maybe worth discussing your needs with a business development consultant. Mobile devices offer a substantial degree of flexibility, and it is more than likely that there is a solution out there for your company.

An alternative to investing in these technologies is to encourage employees to supply their own. Bring your own device programs (BYOD) are becoming increasingly common as businesses catch on to the benefits they can offer. 

The SMB Group's survey, published in December 2014, found that 59 per cent of SMEs had these initiatives in place. One of the main drivers behind this was appeal for staff to use preferred devices that are familiar to them.

Provided stringent security policies are put in place, BYOD programs can be a great alternative to traditional IT spending.