TMCnews Featured Article

January 26, 2012

Mobility Trends Demand Mobile Device Management

By Susan J. Campbell, TMCnet Contributing Editor

The introduction of the mobile device into the enterprise ushered in a whole new approach to communications. When those devices evolved to include network connectivity, IT managers had to take a step back and examine their policies and security methods. The result was often a dictatorship of which devices could be supported and the device was generally owned by the enterprise.

Fast forward to today and that scenario is changing. The enterprise IT has taken on a nearly “consumerized” personality. Employees are managing their own devices, using them to access corporate email accounts, desktops, applications and databases. With many of them on-the-go, such access is critical to the success of their position. It also introduces a whole new focus for IT as mobile device management becomes more and more critical.

As captured in this Channel Partners Online piece, mobile device management demands a closer look at not only managing these devices, but also securing them when connected to the network. As smartphones and tablets continue to invade the corporate environment, IT managers are being forced to beef up their performance, monitoring and security applications, while also providing users with the necessary support.

Implemented as a core approach within enterprise IT, mobile device management refers to the solutions put in place to manage any mobile device, as well as a full array of operating systems and their respective applications. Most mobile device management solutions will rely on server-side software, acting as a centralized hub for communications between the mobile device and other services supported by the corporate network.

A number of different vendors operate in the mobile device management space, and a number of variables can set one provider apart from another. Those players with the most innovative solutions and the strongest channel programs tend to have the best competitive advantage. It also doesn’t hurt when the provider understands the challenges IT managers face and how to address these challenges, while also providing what the end-users need.

The typical purchasing scenario when it comes to mobile device management will include partners working in conjunction with the vendor to complete installation, or a vendor working directly for the sale. A solution may also be white labeled and marked at a discounted price. The vendor will often coordinate with a consultant for the integration and training, adding to the partner revenue stream.

A quick look around the global market and the smartphone and tablet revolution has arrived. The best way to get value out of your mobile device management platform is to partner with a provider who can help you develop a smart mobile strategy and address issues such as device and application management, as well as a solid approach to security such as MobileIron. With the right elements in place, you’ll be in a better position to support your employees in this current trend.

Want to learn more about the latest in communications and technology? Then be sure to attend ITEXPO East 2012, taking place Jan. 31-Feb. 3 2012, in Miami, FL. ITEXPO (News - Alert) offers an educational program to help corporate decision makers select the right IP-based voice, video, fax and unified communications solutions to improve their operations. It's also where service providers learn how to profitably roll out the services their subscribers are clamoring for – and where resellers can learn about new growth opportunities. For more information on registering for ITEXPO registration click here.

Stay in touch with everything happening at ITEXPO. Follow us on Twitter.

Susan J. Campbell is a contributing editor for TMCnet and has also written for eastbiz.com. To read more of Susan’s articles, please visit her columnist page.

Edited by Jamie Epstein

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