What is mobile device management?

Fundamentally, MDM is an IT process implemented using an MDM tool to ensure the efficient and secure management of all mobile devices that have access to corporate data and networks.

Mobile devices like smartphones, laptops and tablets are ubiquitous in the corporate world and preferred over bulky desktops due to the flexibility afforded by their portability. About 71% of IP traffic in 2022 was from wireless and mobile devices, while wired devices accounted for only 29%. However, this very advantage also poses security risks since administrators need to ensure that all the devices and applications get updated with vulnerabilities patched even if the device is being used remotely. Also, what happens if a device gets lost or stolen? While mobile devices used for work are one issue, businesses must also manage their IoT devices, such as access and security systems.

An MDM solution helps businesses address all these security risks while aiding user experience and productivity.

Why is mobile device management important?

Even a small business with only a few hundred employees has thousands of devices connecting to the company’s network and database daily. The average number of devices per person has gone up to 3.6 over the past five years. MDM tools help IT administrators conveniently manage the rapidly expanding world of mobile devices even as resources and budgets for technicians remain the same.
Using an MDM tool, technicians can easily implement security policies on all corporate mobile devices, including users’ personal devices enrolled under the bring your own device (BYOD) program. The solution provides complete visibility into the IT infrastructure and helps technicians discover every device that connects to the network almost instantly. They can then access the device remotely to configure it, deploy security policies, change settings, reset passwords, troubleshoot glitches and even remediate security issues in real time.

Even on a regular day when there aren’t any security threats scaring everyone off, IT administrators have to field tickets from users, patch operating systems and applications, and undertake all sorts of tinkering to ensure the devices stay in top shape. No prizes for guessing that they manage all this with the help of an MDM tool. Moreover, updating applications allows users to benefit from the latest technologies, improving user experience and productivity.

How does mobile device management work?

In the case of new employees joining a company, their work device, whether company-provided or personal, is enrolled in the MDM program. The first step is installing an MDM agent on the device, which can even happen remotely, thus ensuring the device meets security standards and aligns with the company’s policies right from the get-go. Once the MDM agent is in place, the IT department configures the device according to the established security protocols. They install the necessary work applications, set up password requirements and grant user access permissions based on individual profiles.

How does MDM help keep track of policy breaches? The IT team receives alerts whenever a user breaks security protocols by accessing blocklisted applications or websites or when suspicious activity like unauthorized access is detected on the device. Once the alarm goes off, administrators can immediately enact the appropriate security procedure remotely and nip the problem in the bud, shielding the company from potential harm. In the event of a lost or stolen device, the IT department can remotely wipe out sensitive data, ensuring it doesn’t fall into the wrong hands.

How do the IT teams manage multiple devices at once? They make user groups based on various criteria and access permissions, allowing them to efficiently deploy updates and implement changes across a large group of devices with just a single click.

What is mobile device management software?

MDM software gives companies a way to track all corporate mobile devices centrally. It also helps automate routine tasks, such as patching and monitoring, reducing manual errors and making processes efficient. Some common tasks that IT teams undertake using an MDM are:

• Remotely managing, monitoring and securing devices and distributing applications, updates and content in a timely fashion.
• Keeping inventory of all the hardware, software and applications in use because what cannot be seen cannot be managed.
• Segregating the company network into subnets and spreading the data across them. This lowers internal and external security risks since employees only have access to the necessary data.
• Providing robust virtual private network (VPN) connection to ensure safe connectivity to home or other networks.
• Enabling device tracking so data can be recovered or wiped if the device is lost or stolen.
• Facilitating a flexible work environment for employees so they work from anywhere without a hassle.
• Boosting employee productivity by facilitating BYOD usage.

Key features to look for in a mobile device management software

Before selecting a mobile device management software, it’s crucial to consider the following key features:

Device and data security

Data encryption is imperative to protect confidential information from unauthorized access and malicious hackers. Data should not only be encrypted when being transmitted but also when stored on the device. Security of devices is equally crucial, which can be enforced by requiring users to set up strong passwords and use biometric access when possible. Despite preventive measures, devices can succumb to security lapses or go missing. For such cases, the MDM solution should have a fail-safe mechanism to remotely wipe out data, so your company’s secrets remain safe regardless of the circumstances.

Application management and integration

Application management involves distributing, configuring and updating work applications across all corporate devices while tracking proper usage. Automated app management helps quickly onboard new users while ensuring current users always have access to the most recent version of their apps. Application management also looks into the fact that only trusted applications get the green light for download. Last but not least, a good MDM solution should be able to harness the power of integration to streamline operations, boost productivity and supercharge your business.

Access management

The goal of access management is to uphold the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data and systems by controlling and regulating access. Your MDM solution should help with:

• Identity and access management: This entails granting access to devices, data and networks based on user profiles. By defining user roles and permissions, MDM solutions allow administrators to precisely control who can access what, ensuring sensitive information remains protected.
• Profile management: MDM solutions simplify device enrollment and streamline user roles assignment so IT administrators can efficiently deploy policies to entire user groups, enhancing operational efficiency.
• Secure network access: MDM solutions bolster network security by implementing VPN technology. This ensures that all data transmitted over the network, whether through home Wi-Fi or public networks, is encrypted, safeguarding it from potential hackers and intruders.

Content management

You should be able to streamline the complete content management lifecycle, from creation to distribution and archival using your MDM solution. Besides granular permissions and access controls that define who can view, edit or share content, your solution should also provide features like version control and document tracking, enabling organizations to track changes, manage revisions and maintain a complete audit trail of content activities. This ensures greater security, data integrity, and swift identification and resolution of content-related issues.

Configuration management

The restrictions and configurations feature in MDM solutions safeguards the security of corporate data and devices while enforcing corporate policies. Your MDM tool should give IT administrators remote management capabilities, enabling them to configure mobile devices based on geographic regions, user profiles and identities, and deploy essential settings, such as VPN and Wi-Fi.

Conversely, restrictions are crucial in setting up devices in single-app or kiosk mode, ensuring they are solely used for productive work and not for personal purposes. The feature enhances productivity and reinforces security by protecting against potential distractions and unauthorized access.

BYOD support

Many companies offer BYOD options for benefits like quick onboarding, increased employee satisfaction and productivity through device freedom. The right MDM solution should help you harness the advantages of BYOD while maintaining control and security. It should enable the implementation of a comprehensive BYOD policy that sets clear expectations and guidelines for promoting efficiency and protecting sensitive data.

Device inventory, monitoring and diagnostics

Device inventory enables efficient tracking of all devices in use, whether company-owned or BYOD. It includes tracking details such as device specifications, location, warranty status and security settings.

Device monitoring capabilities help administrators ensure that work devices are used exclusively for company business, preventing personal usage that can strain network resources. Additionally, location restrictions can be enforced to limit device functionality to defined geographical areas or company networks thus enhancing security.

The device diagnostics feature empowers administrators to remotely detect and troubleshoot devices ensuring uninterrupted productivity.

Remote maintenance, updates and patching

In the era of hybrid work and round-the-clock availability, an MDM solution is vital for enabling over-the-air updates, configurations and device diagnostics. This will help your business minimize downtime and optimize operations at lower costs.

Tech support and training

Before investing in a solution, check if it supports a wide range of devices and operating systems rather than being limited to, let say, Apple devices and iOS operating systems. It’s ideal to have a solution that covers all bases such as Android and Windows solutions too. Secondly, ensure that the vendor can troubleshoot issues remotely, so you don’t have to spend hours dealing with MDM downtime. Lastly, don’t forget to evaluate the product hands-on. By carefully assessing these factors, you can ensure that you make an informed choice and find an MDM solution that aligns with your organization’s needs.

Admin reporting

Reporting plays a crucial role in maintaining data security and monitoring user activity within an MDM solution. It notifies administrators of any suspicious data downloads or uploads, enabling the tracking of potential data breaches and allowing for proactive action before valuable information is compromised. Furthermore, reporting gives administrators visibility into user activity, ensuring compliance with company policies and guidelines.

How does mobile device management compare to similar concepts?

Mobile device management is often confused with similar concepts such as mobile application management (MAM), unified endpoint management (UEM) and enterprise mobility management (EMM). We have demystified the differences between the concepts in this section.

Mobile application management (MAM)

MAM tools were developed in response to employees’ demands for security and privacy when using their own devices at work. In contrast to MDM tools, MAM tools are solely focused on specific applications rather than complete security and management of devices. A MAM solution helps create an enterprise app store, and only the apps within the store are monitored and updated remotely.

Unified endpoint management (UEM)

UEM is the next generation of endpoint management that helps organizations centrally manage and secure all endpoints, including desktops, laptops, mobile devices and IoT devices. It provides visibility and control over all your network devices (SNMP), virtual environments, cloud, mobile and even IoT. This basically enables you to “manage everything,” streamline your IT operations and do more with less. Deploying a UEM tool is easy, and as more devices get added to the network, scaling it is even simpler.

Enterprise mobility management (EMM)

EMM tools are designed to address the growing security needs of companies while accommodating employees’ demands for BYOD access. By seamlessly integrating with network directory services, EMM tools provide a range of benefits, including policy compliance, application customization and data security. One key advantage of EMM is its ability to combine the functionalities of both MDM and MAM tools.

What are the best practices for mobile device management?

Here are a set of best practices to follow to make the most of your MDM tool:

Implement strong policies

Strong policies should encompass rules for device usage, password complexity, data encryption and other relevant aspects. Additionally, organizations must establish policies that specify the criteria for enrolling, updating and managing devices. It’s equally important to have a well-defined plan for removing devices and applications from the network when they are no longer needed or those belonging to the denylist.

Prioritize password security

To enhance security, implement multifactor authentication for all devices and accounts and ensure that users regularly update passwords for each account. Enforce password expiration policies and monitor access attempts to detect any unauthorized activity. It would help to utilize a password manager to store and manage passwords securely. As an additional layer of security, encourage employees to use biometric authentication whenever possible.

Actively monitor devices

Regularly review and manage permissions and settings to keep track of who has access to sensitive information and periodically update access permissions to ensure that only authorized users can access the data. You can significantly reduce the risk of data compromise by limiting the number of applications users can download on their device and ensuring the downloaded applications meet the allowlist criteria.

Utilize a backup solution

Regularly backing up your files and data is crucial to safeguard against technical glitches, crashes or cyberattacks. By having reliable backups, you can quickly restore data and minimize disruptions, ensuring smooth continuity of work for users.

Focus on user experience

Leverage your MDM solution to strike a balance between offering users a seamless experience and effectively monitoring device usage. By maintaining a firm but non-intrusive approach, you can encourage employees to follow policies and work productively.

Update regularly and often

Ensure that your MDM solution, along with all other devices and applications on the network, is regularly patched and updated. Also, keep a close eye on users who delay updating their operating systems, particularly for BYOD devices, since this can create vulnerabilities that cybercriminals are quick to exploit.

What are the benefits of mobile device management?

MDM solutions offer a range of benefits that contribute to the overall success of an organization.

Enhanced security

An MDM solution acts as a shield, defending against unforeseen cyberattacks, bugs and breaches that can compromise the privacy and security of a company’s data and networks.

Since mobile devices are often used for personal purposes as well, creating secure containers to separate company and personal data adds an extra layer of security. By enforcing strict application policies, such as allowlists and denylists, MDM solutions act as gatekeepers against rogue apps. MDM solutions also sniff out jailbreak attempts and identify malware, ensuring your devices remain untainted by malicious forces.

Increased productivity

MDM solutions unlock employee productivity and efficiency from the get-go. With pre-configured devices, users can skip the hassle of setting up their devices or seeking IT assistance. It’s a seamless experience that empowers them to hit the ground running and maximize their work hours. Embracing the BYOD or choose your own device (CYOD) trend, MDM taps into users’ comfort zone and supercharges productivity. No more time waste navigating unfamiliar interfaces or searching for elusive files and folders. Lastly, by automating the laborious tasks of monitoring and managing a fleet of mobile devices, MDM frees technicians for higher-level tasks.

Cost savings

MDM is a game changer for small and medium-sized organizations, offering a solution to secure devices without breaking the bank or hiring a dedicated IT guru. The MDM solution helps you save money by preventing the need to continually buy new devices or deal with the headache of replacing them. Instead, MDM streamlines device management for optimal performance and protection from potential threats.

Application and device control

MDM offers organizations unparalleled visibility into their device landscape, providing valuable data and insights. IT teams gain a comprehensive understanding of device usage and security levels to drive effective risk management.

Regulatory compliance

With MDM, IT administrators can set up automated processes to regularly scan devices for vulnerabilities and deploy necessary security patches and updates. This streamlines the process and ensures compliance with data protection regulations such as GDPR, HIPAA, ELD and CJIS.

What are the challenges of mobile device management?

While MDM solutions offer numerous advantages, organizations should be aware of the potential challenges they may encounter when implementing and using MDM.

BYOD maintenance

Implementing a BYOD program can enhance productivity and save costs, but it comes with challenges. Choosing an MDM solution that supports a variety of devices is vital for enhanced security. This also enables seamless integration of personal devices with company resources and aids productivity and compliance.

Increasing complexity

MDM solutions can be complex to set up and maintain, requiring specialized expertise. Managing diverse device ecosystems, including iOS, Android, Windows and Linux, adds another layer of complexity. To overcome these challenges, choose user-friendly MDM solutions with comprehensive support and seek vendors offering cross-platform compatibility.

User privacy and friendliness

Despite many valuable features provided by many MDM solutions, they often lack intuitive interfaces, impeding basic tasks like app installations and data backups. Opt for a solution that is easy to use so your administrators can implement policies without disturbing the end user or compromising on security.

Application management and integration

One of the biggest culprits of cybersecurity issues is unauthorized app downloads. Setting strict app download policies lets you keep your network safe from potential threats. Be vigilant and only allow low-threat apps on your users’ devices. Talking about integration — although Apple, Google or Microsoft may offer innovative MDM solutions, they usually do not support third-party apps. Trade-offs like this are not desirable and should be avoided.

Manage mobile devices effectively with Kaseya

Finding a solution that provides all the benefits and features listed above without compromising on challenges is hard but not impossible. You don’t even have to go anywhere searching for it. With Kaseya VSA, our unified remote monitoring and management solution, you can rock the task of mobile device management with ease. Regardless of whether it’s organization’s own or employee-owned mobile device(s) — with VSA, you’ll be ready to manage them easily and securely via your Kaseya console. Monitor, manage and secure iPhones and iPads today (Android device management will be coming to VSA at a later date).

Join the league of IT superstars by scheduling a demo today.

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According to Mordor Intelligence, the Enterprise Mobility Management market was valued at $5.79 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach $11.96 billion by 2026.

The purpose of this blog is to discuss enterprise mobility management, related tools, and how companies can use them to protect their data and employees from cyberthreats.

What Is Enterprise Mobility Management (EMM)?

Presently, when mobile devices are the preferred tool at work, EMM is becoming a critical IT requirement. Smartphones and tablets have become much more advanced in recent years and offer numerous features that make them ideal for several business tasks. They also offer employees the convenience to work from anywhere and at any time. However, if not managed properly, they can put a company’s data and network security at risk. Therefore, companies need EMM solutions that let IT teams manage mobile devices across multiple platforms such as iOS, Android and Windows 10.

EMM solutions come with a set of tools and features that let IT teams monitor, control and manage mobile devices for enhanced security. Typically, an EMM tool offers solutions like mobile device management (MDM), mobile applications management (MAM), mobile content management (MCM) and mobile identity (MIM). Having access to both mobility and security services ensures that employees can access company applications, tools and data at any time without putting the integrity of the device or network at risk.

The Evolution of Enterprise Mobility Management

The roots of EMM tools date back to the early 2000s when Blackberry phones became hugely popular in the business world for bringing email to mobile devices. Businesses purchased these phones in large numbers to expand their mobile device infrastructure. It enabled companies to boost productivity through wireless capabilities. But it also necessitated the need for a mobile device management (MDM) tool to secure the various Blackberry models in use. You can think of MDM as a simple predecessor of the sophisticated EMM tools of today.

As iPhones and Android phones became more available, employees found they offered better functionality and connectivity than Blackberry devices and began using them for work purposes. Due to the consumerization of IT, employees started asking companies to let them use the same devices for both work and personal use, triggering the bring-your-own-device (BYOD) wave.

Companies realized that allowing (BYOD) had many benefits. It enhanced employee productivity, efficiency and happiness, while also simplifying and reducing IT costs. It was a win-win situation for everyone. 

A combination of the BYOD phenomenon and an expanding smartphone apps market led to the creation of mobile application management tools (MAMs) that managed the security and functionality of business apps. Over the years, MDM and MAM tools got coupled with mobile content management (MCM) and mobile identity management (MIM) features to provide enterprises with a more comprehensive mobile device management tool. 

In other words, an EMM solution, as we know it today, is an integrated set of single-feature mobile device management tools such as MDM and MAM. IT teams store business data and applications in containers on mobile devices that can be managed and secured remotely via an EMM tool. Nowadays, mobile device operating systems provide native device management support, commoditizing the EMM industry.

What Companies Need Enterprise Mobility? 

Enterprise mobility refers to the system where employees can work remotely and use whichever devices they choose. This system leverages cloud technology to share business applications and data wirelessly. Now, more than ever before, companies need a robust enterprise mobility framework to ensure business continuity under all circumstances. 

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need to be prepared for all contingencies. According to the International Data Corporation (IDC), the number of mobile workers in the U.S. will continue to grow over the next four years from 78.5 million in 2020 to 93.5 million in 2024. IDC expects mobile workers to make up more than 60% of the total U.S. workforce at the end of its forecast period.

Business organizations are increasingly adopting enterprise mobility systems because they help reduce costs, increase productivity and offer employees better work-life balance. This framework is likely to benefit companies interested in switching permanently to a remote or hybrid working environment. It ensures that employee onboarding, training, data sharing and transferring, and collaboration activities can occur remotely and safely. Additionally, enterprise mobility frameworks can also help streamline and secure a blended work environment where employees work across different locations and time zones.

How Does Enterprise Mobility Management Work? 

Companies use EMM tools to monitor work-related applications and data on mobile devices owned by their employees. This helps protect enterprise data while safeguarding the privacy of employers.

With an EMM tool, device enrollments can be done in bulk both on-premise and remotely, saving the IT team time, effort and cost associated with individual sign-ups. Companies can even send SMS and email invitations to employees and have them self-enroll in the company’s BYOD or enterprise mobility management program. 

Using an EMM tool, companies can remotely implement security policies, change device settings and remove data and apps used for work. In addition, the tool allows IT professionals to wipe out sensitive business data in case a device is lost, stolen, hacked or damaged, without deleting personal data.

EMM tools combine a multitude of features and are improved continuously to meet the changing demands of businesses. EMM tools, as we know them today, are essentially amalgamated and upgraded versions of the single-feature mobile management tools of the past. While EMM tools offer holistic security and management for mobile devices used for work, when you look closely, you will see that these tools consist of many individual features, each focused on a specific aspect of mobile device management. Let’s take a closer look at single EMM features that can be used independently or combined with other features to form a more effective EMM solution.

Mobile Device Management (MDM) 

MDM refers to managing all mobile devices employees use for work such as laptops, smartphones and tablets. It involves using MDM software to remotely manage the entire lifecycle of a mobile device and its operating systems like device inventory, configuration management and remote wipe.

An MDM console can configure and manage devices only after the devices have been enrolled in the server using vendor-specific enrollment programs, such as those offered by Apple, Google and Microsoft, or manually through QR codes, email and SMS. Once enrolled, a device can be configured and managed remotely. The MDM software can either run locally or in the cloud. MDM solutions available as Software-as-a-Service are cost-efficient, scalable and easy to manage.

Mobile Application Management (MAM) 

MAM involves deploying, monitoring and patching enterprise mobile applications that employees use for work. IT professionals can deploy security and corporate policies on business apps and segregate them from personal apps to limit the sharing of corporate data among them. 

A MAM solution also allows employees to access the necessary application from the enterprise app store remotely. App configuration, inventory management, application lifecycle management and software license management are tasks performed using a MAM solution. In the event of a security issue, it can also help remove applications.

Mobile Content Management (MCM)

Employees need to access company data on their devices to be productive. MCM tools enable employees to access, share and store work files on their mobile devices without sacrificing security. An MCM can help determine access rights each employee has to the company’s data and network. By restricting access, companies can isolate the affected areas of their network during a cyberattack, saving the rest of the IT infrastructure from getting taken over. A good MCM solution will also integrate seamlessly with productivity tools so employees can collaborate more effectively.

Mobile Identity Management (MIM)

Data is valuable, and only authorized individuals should have access to it. Companies must adopt a zero-trust security policy as their workforces become more mobile, distributed and remote. They can do this by asking employees to authenticate their identity each time they log into a company network. 

A MIM solution can restrict or deny access based on policies in the case of a potential security threat. It relies on multifactor authentication (MFA), biometrics or device-specific information to verify user identity. MIM goes beyond password management to perform identity checks.

Unified Endpoint Management (UEM)

While EMM followed in the footsteps of MDM and MAM, the next stage of development in the enterprise mobility management industry is the Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) tool.

Using a UEM tool, companies can manage mobile devices plus all endpoints like servers, PCs, printers, wearables and IoT devices connected to the corporate network. Companies do not need to invest in an EMM tool separately if they have a UEM tool. It reduces IT costs and increases the IT department’s ability to manage devices on a company’s network from a single console.

What Is the Importance of Enterprise Mobility Management? 

The business world faces a significant threat from cybercrime. Since people now work from different locations and use a range of devices and platforms to accomplish their tasks, steps must be taken to protect and secure business data to avoid organizational risks. 

Organizations can use EMM tools to provide employees with secure and safe access to work apps and data. The COVID-19 pandemic taught us that companies need to take steps to protect their employees, devices and data even outside secure office networks. A good EMM solution can be a valuable tool for the following reasons:

• Device Security: The cybersecurity threats a company potentially faces increase manifold as they add more devices to their network. Every connected device creates a node that threat actors can exploit to breach the digital perimeter of the company. With an EMM tool, companies can ensure that employees install an endpoint security solution on their device before registering it for the BYOD program or using it for work.Using an EMM solution, companies can monitor all systems on their network for unusual behavior that could indicate whether the device has fallen into the wrong hands. A company can limit the access of specific endpoints to its network and data with features like identity and access management and add another layer of security.

  Consider that according to the Verizon Mobile Security Index 2021 Report, more than half (54%) of the companies that had experienced a mobile-related security breach attribute the breach to user behavior such as falling for a phishing attack, downloading unapproved apps or making unintentional errors.

• Data Security: A stolen or lost mobile device can allow malicious agents to access a company’s network. As well as increasing the risk of data theft from the phone, it also increases the vulnerability of passwords saved on devices. With an EMM solution, your company’s IT team can remotely wipe corporate data stored on a lost or stolen device and use it to deploy location apps to find a misplaced device.

What Are the Benefits of Enterprise Mobility Management? 

By adding an EMM solution to the IT stack, companies can offer work flexibility to their employees and simultaneously protect themselves from modern and sophisticated cyberattacks. This section explains how EMM tools help businesses remain safe and secure while supporting agile enterprise structures.

• Better Control Over Mobile Data and Apps: When devices and work-related apps are not protected, hackers can exploit them and gain access to a company’s network. Using an EMM solution, companies can remotely manage devices and apps so that employees have access to the data and apps they need. The tool also ensures that data sharing takes place securely and that employees do not download apps that could pose a security risk. Additionally, the solution can be used to host a personal enterprise app store from which employees can download apps that have been verified for security.
• Supports BYOD Programs: According to the Verizon Mobile Security Index 2021 Report, more than one in three (36%) organizations opened access to corporate resources and systems to employees using personal devices — that’s on top of those that already allowed it.By using an EMM solution, companies can monitor and evaluate all BYOD resources from a single console. It allows them to act swiftly as soon as they learn about a device getting compromised. EMM solutions can provide businesses with the visibility they need to monitor external and internal threat actors, as well as ensure that their employees proactively adhere to their device policies.
• Improves Employee Productivity: Having access to company data and information anywhere and anytime helps employees respond to work tasks in real time and facilitates easy collaboration with peers. It also allows employees to use their own devices for work, with which they enjoy familiarity and comfort, and hence helps them produce better quality work in less turnaround time.

Who Uses Enterprise Mobility Management? 

Due to mobile devices, employees are no longer dependent on the office environment for work, which has improved productivity. Even though the needs of every company are different, EMM solutions will benefit companies that have a hybrid or remote work environment or employees who are always on the move. Let’s look at some industries where an EMM system would be a good fit.

• Healthcare: During the COVID-19 pandemic, many healthcare professionals provided consultation to patients over the phone. They shared prescription and test results over mobile devices. An EMM solution enables healthcare brands to secure patient communications while storing and sharing all patient information in a secure environment. Deloitte’s 2021 Connectivity and Mobile Trends Survey found that virtual medical visits enabled patients to receive quality care during the pandemic — drawing positive feedback from them.
• Construction: Most construction employees like architects, site managers and engineers are always in the field. With access to company tools and applications on mobile devices, they can share ideas, designs and tasks from the ground and check on inventory without visiting the office or the warehouses. This helps streamline the workflow and increase productivity.
• Retail: Equipping sales staff at retail outlets with mobile devices will help them personalize the user experience on hand and maintain better communication with inventory teams, warehouse teams and sales staff at other outlets.

Having an EMM Solution that supports BYOD policies can benefit many small and midsize businesses that wish to scale while keeping their costs low.

Implementing Enterprise Mobility Management 

An EMM policy will not only improve security for your business but will lay the groundwork for a BYOD policy that can reduce IT costs, make your employees more productive and the work culture more flexible. A structured roadmap is key to ensuring your EMM plan carries more advantages than disadvantages. Here’s how you can go about it:

• Permitted Devices: To make EMM management simple and easy, you must first decide which devices you will allow employees to use. You need to consider the device models and operating systems that best suit your business needs. It will also help you determine how often employees must upgrade their devices. Also, you should decide if you will be subsidizing the device purchase and paying a certain amount for its upkeep and repair. Maintaining a consistent standard will help you simplify policy decisions.
• Type of Enterprise Mobility Management Solution: The next question to consider is the type of EMM solution you should purchase. Do you want a tool that offers a whole host of features or specific features like MDM, MAM and such?
• Device Management and Registration: When the type of devices is selected, rules will need to be established about registering and adding them to the company’s IT directory. It is a good time to figure out how much and what kind of access will be given to employees based on their job roles. This policy area will also look into how much access the company will have to the device if it is used for personal use as well.
• Information Storage: Do employees have the option of downloading and storing company data on their devices in a secure container? Would data access be granted only via a cloud application that is accessible only after multiple authentications? The trick is to strike a balance between productivity and security.
• Compliance: The government has different compliance and mandates that industries must follow. Know the compliance requirements of your company and ensure that mobile management fits within the guidelines. Compliance with security standards is essential, especially when employees have access to confidential client or customer information.
• Risk Management: How will the company secure devices and data if they are lost or stolen? A step-by-step procedure must be outlined and well documented so that IT technicians are not entangled in looking for solutions.
• Policy Stakeholder Involvement: A company should ensure that stakeholders from across sectors participate in the implementation of an EMM policy. This will prevent policy conflicts and ensure everyone’s goals are met.

Strengthen Your Enterprise Mobility Management With Kaseya

With remote work set to become a permanent and prominent feature of work culture, companies must develop policies regarding the safe and secure use of personal devices at work. Read our comprehensive eBook “BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): A Comprehensive Guide” to understand how BYOD can benefit your employees and company, and what policies, guidelines and practices you should be mindful of when building a secure and productive BYOD program.

Kaseya VSA, an industry-leading unified remote monitoring and management (uRMM) solution, provides your business with a complete solution stack to maximize technician efficiency. VSA, combined with Cortado MDM solution, delivers a simple, fast and secure way for MSPs and SMBs to manage mobile devices from a single pane of glass. By combining device management into a single platform, VSA offers MSPs the opportunity to manage all the devices in their fleet from one scalable product. 

Kaseya VSA leverages the power of automation, threat detection and seamless integration with crucial business tools all from a single console. It helps businesses operate more efficiently by automating common IT processes and eliminating manual effort for routine tasks, ultimately freeing up time for your IT team to focus on more strategic projects. Find out more about how Kaseya VSA can boost operational efficiency and save you money.

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