Mobile device technology has exploded in recent years. Not only do a vast majority of Americans own and use mobile devises, almost as many would probably say they could not live without their mobile phone or tablet. Mobile devices are capable of being used for far more than just communicating nowadays, and this functionality has found its way into the business world. Currently, nearly 30% of all mobile service subscribers in the United States are business mobile users. Additionally, in a recent survey of over 1,000 consumers, one in five said they will use the new iPad for business purposes exclusively. Mobile devices are replacing traditional PCs as development work machines. Because of this recent trend in the business industry, proper mobile device management and security is crucial for any company focusing on mobile development.
The majority of businesses instituting mobile devices for workflow use a bring your own device (BYOD) model. This consists of the employee bringing their own phone or tablet to work and using it for any data management, project development or company communication. According to a recent report, 50% of all companies using BYOD models require employees to cover all technology costs, and employees are by and large compliant. This may have to do with the fact that employees either already own appropriate mobile devices or seeing the opportunity of a BYOD model as a reason to own another personal device. BYOD models rely heavily on cloud based architecture. Another reason for secure mobile device management. With dozens, even hundreds of personal devices comprising your project workflow and company data, security, inventory and patch updates are of the utmost importance.
Mobile device management can be used to keep track of data sharing and project development and allow easy access for one employee to view the work of another. iPhone management also guarantees all devices will be up to date regarding the latest patches and software updates from providers and developers. Software as a service and on premise models can be utilized for mobile device management. With so much of your company and project developmental data being stored on mobile devices, iPhone security is also crucial to this sort of business model. Mobile devices are prone to get lost, damaged or stolen. Encrypting devices will prevent any data from a lost device from being accessible by an unknown party.
Any company employing a BYOD business model needs strong mobile device management and security. Not managing or protecting data is like going into battle without armor. It does not make sense to not do it.