Over the last twelve months consumer devices have become the real game changer when it comes to implementing new technologies in the workplace. So it comes as no surprise that 2012 will be the year for consumer IT to flood the workplace. Recent research shows that iPads and Android tablets increase productivity and motivation amongst employees, and those turning to tablets now have more flexibility in the methods they use to complete tasks, as well as where they can carry them out. Train, coffee shop, at home - the list of ‘mobile’ working is endless.

However, with the introduction of consumer devices in the office, comes the need for better security and protection of corporate data and intellectual property – a real headache for IT managers! Decision makers in IT departments will have to consider the ways in which they can prevent this, as well as tackling potentially harmful viruses and file infections from creeping up to the corporate network. Another obstacle for in-house IT departments to get their heads around are the issues with software compatibility and less effective applications (for the time being).

Over time, as mobile working increases, organisations will slowly move application and data residence in to the cloud starting with lower priority applications first, then adding more important services thereafter. With businesses turning to such virtualised services and cloud based models, it is in their interest to understand how to best access data from these devices.

It would be foolish of businesses to see the integration of devices in the workplace as a pest or hazard. After all, there are inexpensive ways to tackle the potential hazards that may be obstructing businesses in their quest to move forward with the consumerisation of IT at work. This year we will see many organisations turning to experienced consultants for assistance and support in integrating devices into the workplace.

Skilled IT solution providers will be able to explain the real benefits of bringing your own device to businesses, and how to integrate them effectively to increase productivity and morale amongst workers. They will also provide expansion strategies to integrate or migrate solutions quickly and effortlessly, all whilst ensuring that the concern around data security is abolished and that application functionality is at its maximum.

To adapt to the storm of consumer IT that is sweeping across offices in the UK and US, businesses must get behind the next generation of IT and accept that technology is always evolving. They must adopt a new attitude as this will boost productivity and is a means to achieving goals, which until now, have been out of reach for many organisations.