How do you manage mobile device assets?

1 Define your policy

The first step to managing your mobile device assets is to define a clear and comprehensive policy that covers all aspects of device usage, ownership, security, and support. Your policy should specify who can use mobile devices for work, what types of devices are allowed or provided, how they are configured and enrolled, what applications and data are accessible, what security measures are required, and how violations are handled. Your policy should also align with your business goals, compliance regulations, and user needs. You should communicate your policy to all your employees and stakeholders and review it regularly to keep it updated.

2 Choose your solution

The next step to managing your mobile device assets is to choose a suitable MDM solution that can help you implement and enforce your policy. There are many MDM solutions available in the market, each with different features, capabilities, and costs. You should evaluate your options based on your budget, scalability, compatibility, functionality, and usability. Some of the key features to look for in a MDM solution are device inventory, configuration, security, application management, remote control, reporting, and analytics. You should also consider how your solution integrates with your existing IT infrastructure and systems.

3 Deploy your devices

The third step to managing your mobile device assets is to deploy your devices to your users. Depending on your policy and solution, you can use different methods to enroll and configure your devices, such as manual setup, QR code scanning, email invitation, or zero-touch provisioning. You should ensure that your devices are properly registered, authenticated, and encrypted before distributing them to your users. You should also provide adequate training and support to your users on how to use their devices and comply with your policy.

4 Monitor your devices

The fourth step to managing your mobile device assets is to monitor your devices regularly and proactively. You should use your MDM solution to track the status, location, performance, and usage of your devices. You should also use your solution to detect and resolve any issues, such as device loss, theft, damage, malfunction, or breach. You should be able to remotely lock, wipe, or reset your devices if needed. You should also use your solution to collect and analyze data on your devices, such as inventory, compliance, security, application, and cost metrics.

5 Optimize your devices

The fifth step to managing your mobile device assets is to optimize your devices for maximum efficiency and effectiveness. You should use your MDM solution to update and maintain your devices regularly, such as installing patches, upgrades, or new applications. You should also use your solution to optimize the performance and battery life of your devices, such as adjusting settings, disabling unused features, or deleting unnecessary files. You should also use your solution to optimize the cost and value of your devices, such as reviewing contracts, usage plans, or warranties.

6 Review your strategy

The sixth and final step to managing your mobile device assets is to review your strategy periodically and adjust it as needed. You should evaluate your policy, solution, deployment, monitoring, and optimization processes and identify any gaps, issues, or opportunities for improvement. You should also solicit feedback from your users and stakeholders and measure the impact of your MDM on your business outcomes, such as productivity, security, customer satisfaction, or revenue. You should also keep up with the latest trends and developments in mobile technology and MDM and incorporate them into your strategy if relevant.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?