It seems like an eternity since the advent of 4G and smartphones ushered in the era of enterprise mobility, with voice and data IP services and a fast broadband internet experience serving as a primary engine of growth. The introduction of 5G mobile data networks takes this to a whole new level. Offering faster speeds and increased data capacity with lower latency and greater device density, the fifth generation of mobile wireless communications technology is fast becoming an integral part of every business strategy.

Back in the day – around about ten years ago – bring your own device or BYOD represented a bold move reflecting the new relationship technology played in people’s work and personal lives and the shift to a more mobile and always on work culture. Led by employee demand for the same level of technology performance at work as they enjoy at home, companies began to figure out how to allow employees’ smartphones, tablets, and laptop devices to access corporate networks while ensuring the infrastructure remains secure.

During the onset of the pandemic last year, the adoption of cloud technologies gathered pace as more and more businesses opted for a cloud-first technology strategy. This in turn has fuelled new demand for SD-WAN services.

Both a source of competitive advantage and a threat to the status quo, the rapid rise of smartphones in the workplace has shaped today’s world of industry and commerce. The dynamics of enterprise mobility is heralding a new era of enhanced efficiency and productivity by streamlining communication, improving data accuracy, and eliminating unnecessary paperwork, all of which saves time and associated costs.

In our COVID-adjusted economy operating in a cycle of lockdowns, supporting enterprise mobility is more critical than ever. Even out of lockdown, the popular switch to a hybrid working model creates a geographically dispersed workforce operating from different locations using their own devices.