Smartphones and tablets are important tools for many businesses. But while those mobile devices give employees the freedom to be flexible and productive from anywhere, they simultaneously bring with them certain security risks that are somewhat inherent to the devices and management. Here comes Mobile Device Management (MDM) with a centrally provided solution to securing, controlling, and monitoring your mobile device fleet.
What is Mobile Device Management (MDM)?
MDM is a tool acting as a digital protector for the device. It lets the IT administrator define policies, distribute applications, and enforce security. In case of necessity, IT can also remotely wipe data. MDM services are compatible with diverse platforms like iOS, Android, and Windows Mobile and offer consistent management across your entire device landscape.
Why is Mobile Device Management Important?
Following are five key reasons why implementation of MDM is important for organizations:
1. Enhanced Security
Mobile devices are potential gateways for malware, data breaches, and unauthorized access. MDM tackles these threats head-on by:
- Strengthening Defenses: MDM imposes a strong password standard and data encryption which puts a digital shield around all of the sensitive information on the device and thereby decreases the possibilities of unauthorized access to data that can put at stake your confidential company data.
- Acting as an App Gatekeeper: MDM enables you to act as an app gatekeeper allowing you to control which applications a user can and cannot install. This means employees are not allowed to install bad or unproductive applications, securing your devices and the network from security threats. It can also eliminate distractions for your workforce, bringing the workplace back to a more focused, secure environment.
- Providing Remote Wipeout Capability: In the event of loss or theft of the device, MDM empowers IT with the remote capability to wipe it which will eliminate the potential for outside access to sensitive corporate data.
2. Streamlined Control and Compliance with MDM
MDM minimizes compliance risks and ensures consistent setups of devices throughout the organization.
- It acts as your “compliance champion” staying current with industry regulations and helping to protect your business from legal exposure.
- It will simplify management and troubleshooting with the use of standardized security settings, Wi-Fi profiles, and email configuration on all your devices.
- It will provide an overview of your whole fleet through central inventory management with visibility into your device location, software versions, and will update to keep your deployment at its optimum performance and efficiency.
3. Unlocking Productivity with MDM
Equip employees with apps they can use right at their fingertips. Make it so there are fewer distractions with content control and enable secure mobile collaboration. MDM will empower your mobile workforce to excel, raising productivity and driving business outcomes. Just think of document sharing without friction – work environments focusing on what should be done, and employees being empowered to make their own decisions – this is where MDM gains its edge.
4. Reduced Costs
MDM transforms your mobile fleet into a lean, mean, cost-saving machine. Leverage your device volume for better carrier deals. Apply data policies and curb roaming charges to manage expenses. Additionally, MDM optimizes life cycles for your devices, cuts the expenses of substitution, and releases funds for more vital investments. It’s a boon for your bottom line.
5. Peace of Mind
Undoubtedly, MDM provides peace of mind knowing your devices are secure, compliant, and managed effectively. This allows you to focus on your core business operations without worrying about potential security risks or management challenges associated with mobile devices.
Final Thoughts
In this day and age, Mobile Device Management is no longer a luxury, it is a need. A strong MDM strategy means improved security, enhanced control over devices, more productivity, cost savings, and peace of mind in the knowledge that your organization’s mobile devices are managed and secure.