Considerations for Selecting Mobile Device Management Technology
Not every mobile device management (MDM) technology or device deployment plan is created equal; when selecting an MDM for your enterprise, there are a few crucial considerations to keep in mind before you make your choice. This blog is part one in a three-part blog series that will address concerns for selecting a mobile device management technology, how to implement one at your enterprise, and best practices for managing it.
Evolution of MDM to EMM to UEM
MDM solutions have evolved from managing applications, profiles, and/or policies for mobile devices. MDM became the foundation for Enterprise Mobility Management (EMM), which added authentication, security management, and dedicated content. EMM combines the following facets:
- MDM: Handles enforcing security policies and profiles and provides the ability to remote control devices, tracking of the device, new device deployment, and wiping the device when it is either lost or stolen.
- Mobile Application Management (MAM): Deals with the installation, update, configuration, and uninstallation of corporate applications.
- Mobile Content Management (MCM): Ensures end-users can access corporate data such as documents and media through authorized applications and devices.
- Mobile Identity Management (MIM): Makes certain that end users have the correct level of permissions to access corporate data via enterprise single sign-on (SSO), multi-factor authentication, and more.
EMM has added support for multiple operating systems such as macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, iPad OS, Android, and Internet of Things (IoT) and is now considered Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) by many analysts and vendors. MDM can support and manage pretty much any endpoint, including desktops, laptops, tablets, mobile devices, and IoT devices.
Find a Mobile Device Management Technology That…
Is user-centered
When selecting an MDM solution provider, it’s essential to find one that centers around users — both IT administrators and end-users. Take time to find a solution that allows users to choose the necessary tools that support their productivity. Further, processes put into place by the MDM to manage technology should not be obtrusive nor impact user productivity.
Can grow with you
In addition to being user-centered, find a provider whose platform will grow as your business grows, can manage a modern platform, and has the scalability to handle a large fleet. It’s crucial that they can handle a vast ecosystem of devices, including laptops, tablets, IoT, and mobile devices, including iOS, Samsung, Android, Zebra, Honeywell, and more.
Has a vast partner ecosystem
You want to choose a mobile device management technology that can support your business, not one that falls short of expectations. That’s why it’s important to find an MDM with a vast, diverse, best-of-breed partner ecosystem. If they do, that means that they have access to a range of technology solutions for customers’ business needs and infrastructure requirements.
Allows product trials
It is crucial to take advantage of product trials provided by potential providers. During your trial, you can test out the product to ensure that it meets your needs. This means enrolling devices into trial environments to push apps, profiles/policies, files, compliance policies, remote control, and more. The MDM vendor should have a top-ranking or standing by top industry analysts and their extensive client base.
Mobile device management technology is here to make your life easier, not harder. That’s why when it comes to selecting a provider, it’s crucial to review their offerings, capabilities, and connections in order to choose the best fit for your enterprise. Looking into their focus, growth, partner ecosystem, and product trial availability will tell you all you need to know about their compatibility with your company.
If you’re looking for an MDM for device deployment assistance and more, but aren’t sure where to start, look to a systems integrator, such as DecisionPoint, to help provide recommendations and take you through vetting and selecting the correct MDM. Contact our team of experts to get started today.
About DecisionPoint:
DecisionPoint is a leading provider and integrator of enterprise mobility and wireless applications solutions that delivers improved productivity and operational advantages to its clients by helping them move their business decision points closer to their customers. We do this by making enterprise software applications accessible to the front-line worker anytime, anywhere. DecisionPoint utilizes all the latest wireless, mobility, and RFID technologies. DecisionPoint is headquartered in Irvine, California. For more information about DecisionPoint Systems, Inc.,
Learn more about how DecisionPoint and Wavelink can improve efficiency and profits. visit www.decisionpt.com.
