14 Sep Should You Implement Mobile Device Management?

Integrating mobile devices, especially with “bring your own device” policies is a great way to expedite workflow performance and potentially reduce costs associated with hardware. But onboarding multiple devices, especially mobile hardware, can create a laundry list of complications if not managed carefully. From security risks to the development of “Shadow IT,” onboarding BYOD mobile hardware and/or integrating mobile devices into your IT architecture boasts both pros and cons.

This is an understandable concern. A poorly managed influx of mobile connections can spiral out of control and balloon into numerous IT problems. Naturally, you don’t want this. That’s why a MDM management solution is a viable response to mobile hardware. In fact, it’s a worthwhile investment if you plan to utilize mobile devices and BYOD policies to accomplish work-based tasks.

What is an MDM?

An MDM refers to “mobile device management” or “mobile device manager.” It can be implemented and controlled by a team or single administrative user, often in combination with software management tools. The core principle behind MDM is to protect the business network, optimize control, enforce IT policies, and improve performance for mobile devices connecting to said company network.

MDM is also ideal as it enables the smooth onboarding of BYOD. Without MDM, administrators have less tools available to monitor traffic and enforce security policies. For example, a user’s devices may house various apps and software irrelevant to business functions. Or, they utilize apps not approved for company use to develop workflow workarounds, creating the Shadow IT problem.

The options available to an IT administrator depend on the MDM suite used, but control and policy enforcement are mainstay characteristics of any quality suite. Once users connect to the MDM agent, the suite in-question enforces and monitors whatever policies are in place.

The Positives of MDM

The immediate benefits of an MDM system and management policy are easy to see. For instance, cost efficiency is a major positive of mobile device management. Since a BYOD policy allows users to onboard their hardware and devices, a business does not need to invest in hardware for current or new staff. Additionally, familiarity with personal devices reduces the need for specific training. And, where relevant, it expands the abilities of a business to allow for remote working options and productivity.

But again, with those options and onboarding of mobile utility, a business needs proper mobile device management to maintain efficiency and reduce critical cybersecurity risks.

There’s a few key ways MDM suites accomplish security check tasks. For example, one critical risk presented to a business is device loss. Whether intentional or otherwise, the loss of a mobile device creates an enormous security risk, exposing data, apps, and important information to unknown parties. But with an MDM, you can wipe that lost device remotely, including any valuable data contained on it.

Mobile management can also implement policy and user-based access control. In other words, depending on the permissions allowed for a staff member, their access to business adjacent resources is controlled. That prevents full-scale access by anyone accessing the company IT with their mobile hardware, providing better layers of controlled security. These policies and rules are easier to enforce with an MDM suite.

Downsides to Consider

The prospect of utilizing an MDM is beneficial, but if you haven’t implemented it yet, consider the trade-offs versus the positives.

There are legitimate privacy concerns when involving management software combined with a BYOD policy. MDM suites can track and store user data, activity, and even location details. These intense monitoring policies can be off putting to users and even expose their data in case of data breach. Remember, even with intricate security and thorough planning, data breaches can happen, MDM or no.

Additionally, MDM software requires constant usage. Not all devices used by staff are the same, and this can lead to increased battery use and slower performance.

Also, remember that mobile device management software is a time-consuming process and investment. It will require training and proper onboarding to ensure the suite operates correctly. It will also need proper oversight by trained IT experts, specifically those with management and network administrator experience.

Conclusion

The benefits of mobile device management are easy to see, but it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. If you need additional assistance or help implementing an MDM solution, consider reaching out for help. Contact Bytagig for additional info.