The Defense Department released an unclassified version of a new mobile device strategy dated June 8, 2012, that addresses some of the major issues facing DoD in its efforts to adopt and rationalize the use of commercially available smartphones, tablets, and mobile devices across the Department.

The strategy document, issued by Defense Chief Information Officer Teri Takai, acknowledges that commercial smartphones and tablets that operate using a variety of commercial systems offer a more cost-effective solution than pursuing DoD’s traditional course of developing custom hardware and software applications.

“This strategy is not simply about embracing the newest technology — it is about keeping the DoD workforce relevant in an era when information and cyberspace play a critical role in mission success,” she said.