It’s the planet of mobiles. Communication, learning, entertainment, or business; it’s all about mobile devices. Hence, it’s no surprise that the concept of a “mobile-first” approach has gained significant prominence. It was in 2009 when design mogul Luke Wreblowski introduced the term “mobile-first” in his book by the same name. At that time, the term centered around creating designs optimized for the smallest of screens first before larger ones. The design optimization followed the order—smartphones, tablets, laptops/desktops. This meant designs based on mobile experiences.
Almost 1.5 decades later, “mobile-first” is a term that has gone way beyond just design. It’s now a business strategy, not just a coined design term. And that strategy isn’t or shouldn’t be limited to only customer experiences on mobile devices. Modern workplaces have also become mobile-first, with employees using personal or corporate mobile devices for work. Organizations are embracing enterprise mobility for a mobile-first strategy, and a Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution lies at the heart of it all.
A mobile-first strategy emphasizes the use of mobile devices by employees, both in the field and off-field, as a central component of business operations. Organizations must adopt an MDM solution to implement and manage this mobile-first strategy successfully. This blog will explore how MDM supports a mobile-first business strategy and why IT admins play a crucial role in this process.
Introduction to Mobile-First Business Strategy
A mobile-first business strategy is built on the idea that mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, are integral tools for employees to perform their tasks efficiently and effectively. This approach recognizes that mobile devices are not just for communication but also for accessing critical business applications, data, and services. Here are some key aspects of a mobile-first strategy:
1. Increased Workforce Mobility
In a mobile-first organization, employees have the flexibility to work from anywhere, whether they are in the office, on the road, or at home. This increased mobility leads to improved productivity and responsiveness.
2. Enhanced Customer Engagement
Mobile devices enable employees to interact with customers in real time, providing better customer service and engagement. Sales teams, for instance, can access product information, process orders, and resolve customer queries while on-site.
3. Access to Real-Time Data
Mobile-first businesses rely on real-time data access to make informed decisions. This means that employees need secure access to corporate data and applications from their mobile devices.
4. Sustainability
In mobile-first business environments, a lot of documentation gets done digitally. Everything is on mobile via apps, cloud, or network, from digital signatures to training materials and other resources. Less or no paperwork can save so many trees every year globally. Hence, digital footprint implies less carbon footprint for mobile-first organizations.
| Dive deep into a mobile-first world with our take on Digital Employee Experience (DEX) |
Role of Mobile Device Management
Mobile Device Management is a SaaS solution that enables organizations to manage, secure, and support mobile devices used by employees. It plays a pivotal role in enabling and sustaining a mobile-first business strategy. Here’s how:
1. Device Provisioning and Configuration
MDM solutions allow IT administrators to provision and configure mobile devices remotely. This ensures devices are set up according to the organization’s security and compliance policies from the moment they are issued to employees. IT admins can configure email accounts, install necessary applications, and enforce security settings seamlessly.
2. Security and Compliance
Data and device security is a priority in a mobile-first environment. MDM enables IT admins to enforce security policies across all managed devices. This includes features like remote data wipe in case of device loss or theft, enforcing encryption, and setting up strong password policies. IT admins can also monitor devices for compliance with corporate security standards, ensuring devices remain secure over time.
3. Application Management
Mobile-first businesses often rely on a range of custom and third-party applications. MDM allows IT admins to manage and distribute these applications efficiently. They can push updates, install or uninstall applications remotely, and ensure only authorized applications are installed on employee devices.
| Know more with our guide to Mobile Information Management |
4. Remote Troubleshooting and Support
In a mobile-first organization, employees may encounter technical issues with their devices while in the field. MDM solutions enable IT admins to provide remote support and troubleshooting, reducing downtime and increasing productivity. This can include remote screen sharing, diagnostics, and the ability to resolve issues without the need for physical intervention.
5. Data Protection
Data is a critical asset, and an MDM solution protects sensitive business data on mobile devices. IT admins can implement policies that encrypt data, restrict data sharing, control access to peripherals (USB slots), and restrict access to public Wi-Fi, among others.
6. Compliance Reporting and Auditing
MDM solutions provide IT admins with the tools to generate compliance reports and conduct audits. This is crucial for demonstrating adherence to industry regulations and internal policies.
IT Admins’ POV
In a world where enterprise mobility is increasingly central to business operations, a mobile-first strategy is not merely an option limited to UI design but a necessity. An MDM solution serves as the pivot for realizing the benefits of this strategy while maintaining security and compliance standards.
IT admins play a vital role in implementing and managing MDM solutions effectively. They are responsible for ensuring mobile devices are provisioned, secured, and monitored in line with the organization’s policies. By leveraging an MDM solution, IT admins can empower employees with the necessary tools while safeguarding the organization’s data and assets.
As technology evolves, IT admins must stay updated on the latest advancements in MDM software to adapt and refine their mobile-first strategies for maximum efficiency and security. A well-executed mobile-first strategy, supported by a robust MDM solution, can propel an organization ahead in today’s highly competitive business world.
Stay Mobile-First with Scalefusion MDM
Scalefusion offers extensive capabilities for IT admins to stay on top of managed mobile devices. It supports the world’s major mobile operating systems—Android and iOS. Scalefusion’s Android and Apple device management feature set is vast and comprehensive, including enrollment options such as Android Zero-touch, Samsung KME, and Apple DEP. Thus, Scalefusion MDM fits all the business needs of organizations keen on establishing and executing a mobile-first strategy.
Contact our experts to learn more about how Scalefusion supports mobile-first initiatives. Get started with a 14-day free trial today.
