As the world begins to leverage mobile devices in the workplace, the need to be synchronized across all platforms that not only include a computer network, but mobile phones and tablets alike increases. However, before an enterprises can even think about deploying any type of business solution on their employee’s devices, it is imperative that the data in the solution is secure, which leads us to the hottest topic right now in the industry: mobile security.
A company’s value is closely tied to its data, although that is nothing new as the industry had some challenges in the 90s as it began to lay out networks to connect desktop computers; the Web had security issues created by any Web browser connecting to a website; and now, we have mobile devices that are carried in our pockets. Even Apple (News - Alert) is not immune to security risks created by highly portable devices when it lost the on two iPhone prototypes on two occasions. Needless to say, there will always be hackers, but that’s why it is up to an enterprise to choose the most reliable, and protective MDM and MEAP solution.
According to Matthew David, chief digital strategist at Compuware (News - Alert), there are dozens of technical solutions when it comes to MDM (mobile device management) and MEAP (mobile enterprise application platforms), yet there are two major obstacles with the first being managing these ncreasing number of devices.
“Today there is are iPhones, iPads, Android (News - Alert) devices, Windows Devices and BlackBerry devices; and the list is increasing and changing as new technologies continue to emerge,” David commented. “The challenge for MDM providers is the limited reach Apple will allow for iOS. Recently Gartner (News - Alert) predicted that Apple devices will account for 50 percent of all digital devices in any company by 2015. Not having deep control is a challenge. The solution is to move the data security out of the hardware into the App.”
Fortunately, David and his team have a lot of experience in securing websites, and app security is not much more different. This leads us to the second point: MEAPS.
Currently, there is a trend that HTML5 powered solutions such as SAP’s (News - Alert) Syclo will resolve all issues. HTML5 is great for prototype solutions but companies need to leverage native data security offerings to ensure the greatest protection of their content.
“Compuware builds out solutions by leveraging our own proprietary MEAP tools,” David added. “Unlike commercial solutions that are a “one size fits all” we prefer to see each of our clients as unique and tailor a solution that meets their needs.”
In regards to the government beginning to adopt mobile devices, he warns that it is important that security is the top agenda item in the development of all of their mobile solutions, just like it is now for enterprises around the world. The more precise the solution has been architected to meet the demands of security, the more safe and efficient it will become to utilize mobile devices.
Visit the Compuware website now to learn more about its MDM and MEAP solutions.
Edited by Jamie Epstein