No Internet or Laptop for you!

A couple of weeks ago I blabbered about a world with no IT resources. Since then I had a chance to discuss it with friends, especially the end device ownership part and thought it is interesting enough to share with others.

During the 15th century the Feudalism system was very common in Europe. The lucky ones played the role of lords and “life was good,” for the rest (vassals) the story was slightly different…
Let’s look at the employee-employer relationship back then. A common “compensation” package a vassal could expect would include a very small component of “salary” and a relatively large component of benefits consisting of food, clothing, housing, security, and possibly heritage rights. In return the lords practically “owned” them.
Therefore the equation was you (the vassal) will work your butt off for me (the lord) and in return I’ll give you everything you need to barely live + some change.

Through the years gradually the salary portion grew while the benefit component has gone down.

Looking at today’s common compensation package, it includes a large component of salary and a relatively small component of benefits. Food, clothing, housing, security, heritage rights? Are you kidding me?

This trend continues and will affect the “end device ownership” dilemma previously discussed.

Companies already take it for granted consumer employees will have internet access at home, so they are capable of continue working (if needed). Now who pays for the internet, electricity, etc.?
End devices are next in line (cell phone, laptop, tablet, etc.). Surprisingly we have an unusual case of common interest. Most consumer employees will be happy using their own device for both home and work activities. We already see today some companies funding the purchase of personal device for work.
As you are expected to show up to work dressed up, employers will mandate end devices capable of doing your work. The good news is as most/all the computing will happen in backend systems (virtual desktop solution), so the requirement for your device is going to be pretty basic.

If we’ll look at the futuristic equation (right around the corner) the employer (i.e. the lords) will give you (the consumer employee) salary only, and in return you’ll be responsible for everything needed to do your work (and obviously work).

Next week it is RSA conference week, therefore no post for you (but many sessions, meetings and dinners for me).
See you in a couple of weeks.