Powering business with mobile devices

Mobile technology is a boon for Canadian businesses, say 73% of firms surveyed by software company Sage North America.

Most say mobile devices boost their customer service.

They’re also helpful when it comes to: carrying on business during bad weather that inhibits travel (32%); getting new business (28%);. and conducting remote meetings (29%).

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Still, while businesses say mobile helps their work, 78% of companies aren’t budgeting for devices to be provided to staff. Instead, they prefer to purchase mobile technology as the need arises. Less than 10% of businesses surveyed set an annual budget for mobile devices and adjust expenditures as needed.

“With some of the most costly mobile plans in the world, Canadian businesses should set budgets for mobile technology and establish clear guidelines for mobile expenses and employee usage,” says Nancy Harris, Sage North America senior vice president and general manager, Canada.

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The survey also found Canadian businesses, more than their American counterparts, are covering the costs of employees’ mobile devices. In Canada 63% of businesses supply mobile devices to their employees, compared to 54% in the U.S. However, the number of Canadian businesses supplying mobile devices to employees has dropped from 71% in 2013. The number of employees that supply their own mobile devices with no company reimbursement has increased to 36%, up nearly 10% from 2013.

Other findings

• 37% have a bring-your-own-device policy, while 39% haven’t considered this option. Another 13% have decided against that strategy for their businesses, and 6% are considering it.
• 53% use a mobile device to access work-related information remotely.
• About two out of five respondents who use mobile applications are using a work-related application on their mobile device that connects to the cloud.

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Staff

The staff of Advisor.ca have been covering news for financial advisors since 1998.