What are MDM providers, and how do they work?

MDM providers create and supply mobile device management software to businesses and individuals. Many different providers are available, such as SOTI MobiControl, VMware Airwatch and others. These providers have created specialized software that works across different operating systems (Android, iOS, others) and allow the individual or IT department to access the device remotely. This means that the IT department can remotely install or uninstall apps and software the employees may need. IT departments can also update necessary systems remotely or wipe the business data from the device if it gets lost or stolen. MDM software also has containerization features. This means that the mobile device’s workspace can be split into two separate spaces, allowing one to be used for work and the other for private uses. This is incredibly valuable, especially when considering a BYOD setup or when supplying employees with mobile devices. Users won’t be able to copy or move data from one workspace to the other. Apps installed on the workspace won’t be available or have access to the other workspace. This feature helps protect the employee’s privacy while simultaneously protecting valuable company data in the case of a breach. As such, mobile device management for BYOD and corporate phones are essential to ensure businesses are GDPR compliant, data is secure, and employees’ privacy is respected. We cover mobile device management in our blog more fully, or you can look at our whitepaper on the topic.

Why use mobile device management suppliers for businesses?

You may be wondering if it’s even worthwhile to use a mobile device management supplier for your company. Why can’t you just let employees install free containerization apps on their devices and then have IT monitor the security? Surely that’s a more cost-effective solution? The reality is that a container app on its own isn’t practical. You’ll have to find and install different apps depending on the individual devices and OS. As such, the IT department will have to look for and evaluate many different apps to find the ones suitable for all company devices. Then these apps will have to be installed and set up - can you imagine the workforce required to do this in a small business with 50 employees? What about a large corporation with hundreds of employees? Container apps also don’t allow the remote monitoring that MDM software does. If any apps need to be installed, files need to be monitored, or if the employee leaves the company, there’s no way to manage these tasks remotely. The IT department will have to take in the devices and install, monitor or update them individually. Once again, a mammoth task for any department. Also, if the device is lost, stolen, or the employee leaves the company, there’s no way to remotely clear the company data from the device, which could lead to a data breach. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of MDM software: Reduces time spent on monitoring, installation and updating devices Avoids data duplication Protects employee privacy Compliant with GDPR Enables easy data edits Improved data quality management High-quality data governance Remote data disposal is available

Resources–Blog

Do businesses need a Mobile Device Management supplier?

Data securityMobile workTechnology

June 9, 20225 min read