Enterprise mobility is changing the traditional workplace to an on-demand, virtual environment accessible at anytime, anywhere and from any device. Much of the smartphone growth within the enterprise is from employee-owned devices. More and more, these employees are requesting the use of their smartphones, tablets, laptops and desktop computers to perform work functions when they are at work and when they are not at work. Many businesses are meeting their employees requests and allowing use of personal devices to perform work functions anywhere and anytime.
With employers making the decision to allow employees to use their personal devices, the network security of the information is of the utmost importance. Enterprises should ensure security and control of their data regardless of where it is. This is where Mobile Device Management (MDM) comes in to play. MDM is an industry term for the administration, deploying, securing, monitoring, integrating and managing of mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, desktop and laptop computers. Security technologies include agent software installed on each device, alphanumeric passwords protecting device access and endpoint management tools that allow IT managers to wipe data of devices that are lost, stolen or belong to employees that have left the company. The intent of MDM is to optimize the functionality and security of mobile devices within the enterprise while simultaneously protecting the corporate network.
An effective MDM solution provides real-time analytics and diagnostic reports to generate valuable business intelligence on the enterprise’s mobile workforce. MDM tools should include application management, file synchronization and sharing, data security tools and support for either a corporate-owned or personally owned device. MDM reduces IT support costs and increases productivity. Users can reset passwords, locate their devices via geotracking and choose from corporate approved apps via an enterprise specific company one stop shopping experience.
IBM is an example of a company successfully adopting an MDM solution to fit their business needs. They performed several pilot studies before rollout to perfect their MDM solution. Continuing their legacy and leadership in open technologies, their employees are now able to explore a wide variety of consumer technologies to fit their personal preferences. Using their personal devices it has enabled employees to work from anywhere at anytime creating organizational advantages for IBM employees, the enterprise and their clients.
Industries such as travel and health care can also reap the rewards of MDM solutions. Hospitals have access to personal patient data that cannot be compromised. MDM safeguards data privacy and security to ensure patient confidentiality. Airline pilots need to access their airline’s intranet remotely to check flight updates and pilot customized weather reports. MDM makes this possible.
AbeTech has their own custom MDM solution, Soti MobiControl, with over 12,000 users worldwide, Soti MobiControl enhances enterprise mobility and enables BYOD initiatives. Give us a call today at 888.682.3113 to discuss how we can make our MDM solutions work for your enterprise.
