How to choose an MDM? The number of solutions available on the market is enormous, and comparing them all is almost impossible. This is not only because of the significant number of options but also because of the constant development of the technology itself. Therefore, when we start the verification process, it is worth focusing on the key elements from our organization’s perspective.
The price works wonders – but is it really?
The cost of purchasing an MDM solution depends on many factors. We may overlook important components by treating price as the only starting point in the search for a supplier. When comparing offers, it is crucial to consider a variety of aspects, such as:
- Access type – do you get access to the entire system functionality or just a portion of it as part of the license? The current landscape of regulations and cyber threats forces companies to be very flexible in responding to changes. As a result, it is worthwhile to anticipate in advance what features we will need in the slightly longer term than the ‘here and now.’
- Applications – whether all applications required for the system (e.g., MDM agent), as well as those required to support selected features, are available at no extra charge.
- Contract duration and the actual monthly expense of using the system.
- The number of devices we can deploy in the solution or in the license model we choose.
Additional features – more or less?
A longer list of system features will enable you to better adapt it to your organization’s changing needs. It is a good idea to start by writing them down and verifying them with the selected offer. A more sophisticated MDM system can provide us with features we hadn’t thought of before, allowing us to develop the company, such as Kiosk mode, which introduces a whole new perspective on mobile devices.
In organizations implementing a more deliberate policy, one should also consider the possibility of developing the system according to the company’s needs. Solutions in which the manufacturer anticipates cooperating with its customers in developing new functions gain priceless value.
A comprehensive solution for your business.
Documentation and certificates
Checking the documentation and specifications of the system is a vital step. Paying attention to manufacturer assurances and verifying that the chosen solution does not abuse capabilities provided by third parties, such as Google as an Android vendor, is essential. Sometimes, MDM manufacturers violate restrictions and legal capabilities of integrations or operating systems. This can negatively affect end users, who may be forced to incur costs associated with the abrupt disabling of functions implemented in violation of regulations.
When choosing the developer and the software itself, one should also pay attention to user privacy, a key issue for the BYOD model. Protecting private personal data should be a priority, and the software should not interfere with it. Any abuse by the system that manages the device in terms of user privacy should be reported, and the functions that enable such actions should be disabled in the BYOD model.
A sound MDM system adheres to any standards adopted by Google or Apple in this regard, and under no circumstances does it violate user privacy. Of course, if the device owner, in this case an employee, allows extended protection under the imposed policies, they can be enabled for personal space as well. On the other hand, such a solution should not be considered standard, as it violates privacy.
MDM is an advisable tool for dealing with ISO or GDPR compliance issues. When transferring responsibility for the correct fulfillment of the requirements, it is worth choosing a supplier with up-to-date certifications, as only these can provide objective confirmation of compliance and guarantee the highest standard of service and data processing.
License model – cloud or on-premise?
With the evolution of IT architecture, most MDM solutions became available in a cloud version. This solution is now one of the more favorable licensing models. In contrast, over half of EU companies still do not use this type of technology. It is therefore worth verifying in advance whether the vendor’s offer includes an on-premise license – required especially for critical services that are impossible or uneconomical to migrate.
Technical support
An MDM solution, like any other software, requires technical support. However, it can vary significantly depending on the services offered. The following points are worth examining:
- Does the developer provide support throughout the purchasing process – from testing, during implementation, and post-sales support;
- Whether the support provided is available as part of the license or for a fee;
- Whether the provider offers extended SLA24 and whether we can customize it to meet our company’s needs;
- What are the available communication channels – email, chat, service queue, and what are the working hours of the support provided by the vendor;
- What is the language of the services provided, documentation available, admin guides;
- Whether we get access to the knowledge base and other educational materials as part of the license;
- Whether we can count on support in the migration process;
- Whether the developer offers training services for administrators.
Summary
There are no shortcuts when choosing a cyber security solution. Every decision should be well-thought-out, not only from a functional perspective but also with security in mind. After all, a solution handling so many aspects is not chosen instantly, and migration is the very last option for an administrator. That’s why it’s worth spending more time on the decision-making process, testing, and consultation so that later, you can enjoy a solution that flexibly meets your organization’s needs.