Abstract:
Tanzania Higher Learning institutions (HLIs) have not fully deployed the
ICT infrastructure to facilitate smooth performance of their business functions. They
have inadequate computers, insufficient network infrastructure, low bandwidth; their
computers are ageing and have limited ICT investment. The research examined
usage of employees’ personal ICT devices for performing office work and the
policies, guidelines and practices that can be implemented by HLIs while adopting
usage of employees’ personal devices in the work environment. As an interpretive
research, data were collected through interviews and observations during the survey
at HLI, Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA). Results confirmed inadequate
computers, low bandwidth at HLIs and revealed usage of employees’ personal ICT
devices for office work and for communicating issues related to employers’ work.
Further, HLIs are not concerned if employees use their ICT devices for office work.
It is like HLIs have silently adopted the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) concept
and thus allowed employees to use personal devices to perform office work. The
BYOD phenomenon helps to improve the availability of ICT devices at the
institution while improving communications and work efficiency and productivity.
The research has explored the BYOD concept in Tanzania HLIs and contributed by
proposing policies and procedures that can guide in its adoption. Due to its potential
benefits, the study recommends HLIs explore how best they can adopt and practise
the concept. Further research can explore on the organizational and user
characteristics that can facilitate adoption of BYOD.
