There’s an ongoing debate in the business world about mobile devices: Should they be allowed in office settings, or do they need to go?

Some say that these devices cut down on workplace productivity. Others argue that smartphones actually increase office productivity, causing things to run more smoothly.

Maybe you are still trying to figure out what is best. While you’re deciding, discover some pitfalls that managers could face if they don’t let mobile devices stay.

You Lose Efficiency

Mobile devices allow managers to get hold of their employees quickly using means such as texting. Those whom you oversee will also be able to check their email and respond when they are away from their desks.

Smartphones today come with native app stores and significant amounts of storage space, just consider the LG V10 with its up to 2TB of expandable memory. This allows multiple apps, such as PowerPoint, Excel, OneNote and Word to be added to your device, increasing your efficiency. Or, suppose that the internet is spotty at the office on a given day – often cell phones are unaffected by such problems, being separate from the business’s network. This allows workers to complete some tasks that otherwise would have been impossible. Task management and scheduling are easy when using these devices.

You Communicate That You Don’t Care

The days are gone when employers can simply ask, “How much can I get out of these people, no matter the cost?” Good workers are willing to go the extra mile for their managers – if they know that their managers care.

But employees want some give and take.

Many of today’s workers grew up watching their parents cave in to each employer demand while accruing little benefit to themselves. If today’s workers don’t find a fair balance, they’ll likely leave and set up shop somewhere else.

Modern workers juggle complex problems such as blended families, school engagements and additional jobs, and they need to know that everything is fine in the other areas of their lives if they are to give you their very best.

You Seem Out of Touch

One of the many challenges in today’s workplace is keeping up with the times.

A few short decades ago, mobile phones were looked at as an extravagant luxury. Nowadays, they are becoming an absolute necessity.

Workers’ whole lives are tied to their phones, whether from making purchases, getting a babysitter, or finding out that a child is coming home sick from school. Because of this dependence, banning mobile phones from your office could make you appear out of touch to those reporting to you. Thus, managers walk a thin line: They want to accomplish as much as possible but they also need to do maintain healthy, trust-filled relationships with their subordinates.

Business Lines Get Tied Up

Although many business communications and transactions occur online, a lot still goes on using phone lines. In many ways, those lines are the veins of your company: Crucial communication takes place through them each day. If phone lines are tied up by employees, then customers and business operations will be pushed to the back burner.

Allowing mobile devices in office settings solves a problem that has been around for generations.

You Are Unprepared For Emergencies

It is much safer for every worker to carry a cell phone, considering the variety of incidents that can occur in the workplace. Whether in case of accidents such as fires or in active shooter situations, you’ll be glad that employees have their devices handy, for quick contact with law enforcement. Indeed, mobile phones are proven life savers during such events.

Summing It Up

Every office business setting poses complex problems. Although many people feel that mobile devices further complicate matters, some of these reasons for allowing mobile devices in the workplace have probably resonated with you.

It is possible to embrace smartphones and still have a healthy, well-functioning work environment.