How to choose an Android device management software for your organization?

How many people do you think use some sort of  an Android device? Take a wild guess! At the time of my research for this blog, the stats stood at a little over three billion active users. Three billion, as in nine zeroes after three. No wonder Android is the most popular mobile operating system in the world! Not only is it popular amongst the general public but also amongst the busy and always-on-the-go people in the business world, with a solid 70% of businesses using devices powered by Android. Well, since it is so well-liked in the corporate world, Google decided to make it more enterprise-friendly and initiated Android Enterprise to manage and secure Android devices in an enterprise.

Why do we need to manage Android devices?

Well, haven’t you heard prevention is ALWAYS better than cure? Why cry over spilled milk if we can ensure the milk jug is safe, secure, and spill-proof? And this is exactly why you need to manage your Android devices, to keep them safe and secure. And a thousand other reasons. So, let’s quickly skim some of the reasons that’ll push you to seriously consider employing an Android management solution.

Security

Well, this we’ve already seen. Anyhoo, Android devices are susceptible to security risks such as malware, data breaches, and unauthorized access. Accordingly, an Android management solution can provide robust security measures to help wrangle your fleet of Androids. From encryption to remote lock/wipe capabilities and everything in between, that’s the promise! Secure app distribution, protect sensitive data, and ensure compliance with security standards…. check them all off with an appropriate Android management solution.

Device control and Compliance

We’ve already seen that the Android operating system is powerful enough to drive a variety of device types. And of course, the corporate world can testify to that. Phones, tablets, or even TVs, you name it; Android’s got collections for all. Try managing a fleet of Android devices without a centralized solution for a day, and you’ll experience firsthand how challenging it can be. This problem right here is what an Android management solution can help you with. Basically, an Android management solution allows organizations to enforce policies and configure device settings. Also, it helps organizations ensure compliance with corporate policies, industry regulations, and data protection laws across all the supported Android device types.

Application management

Deploying and managing applications across multiple Android devices can be time-consuming and inefficient without a proper management solution. But with an Android management solution, organizations can distribute, update, and remove applications remotely, ensuring that users have the necessary apps and reducing the risk of unauthorized or outdated software. Yup, definitely a plus! Manage away your fleet of Android devices (and the apps in them 😉) with a few well-placed clicks.

Remote support and Troubleshooting

Android management solutions provide remote management capabilities. Basically, these capabilities enable IT teams to troubleshoot issues, remotely control devices, and provide support without physically accessing each device. This improves productivity, reduces downtime, and minimizes the need for on-site support. The IT team can easily work their magic from miles away and fix all the issues on the employees’ Androids.

Efficiency and Productivity

Managing Android devices manually can be resource-intensive and prone to errors. An Android management solution automates routine tasks such as provisioning, configuration, and updates, streamlining device management processes and allowing IT teams to focus on more strategic initiatives. Great, right?

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Data protection

Just like any other corporate device, corporate Android devices often store and access sensitive organizational data. Effective device management ensures data protection through measures like secure app distribution, containerization, and data loss prevention policies. It helps prevent data leaks, unauthorized access and ensures compliance with data privacy regulations.

Device tracking and Inventory management

With an Android management solution, organizations can track the location and status of each device in real time. This helps minimize the risk of loss or theft, enables efficient inventory management, and simplifies asset tracking. This is definitely a pretty nifty trick to manage your Android devices!

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Scalability and Centralized management

As organizations grow and their device fleets expand, managing Android devices becomes more complex. An Android management solution provides scalability and centralized management, allowing organizations to efficiently manage and monitor a multitude of devices from a single console.

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Enhanced user experience

An Android management solution enables organizations to configure devices to meet specific user requirements, ensuring a consistent and personalized user experience. It allows for customization of settings, app configurations, and access permissions, enhancing user satisfaction and productivity. Manage your Android devices with complete control over how and why the device is used.

Cost savings

While an Android management solution may involve upfront costs, it can result in long-term cost savings. Effective device management can lead to cost savings. It helps optimize device usage, reduces the burden on IT support, and streamlines workflows. Centralized management and automation of routine tasks improve operational efficiency, reduce manual effort, and minimize the risk of costly errors.

So, manage your Android devices with an Android management solution to simplify device control and streamline management processes.

Can a UEM step in to help manage Android devices?

Yup! The answer to that question is a simple resounding YES. A UEM (Unified Endpoint Management) solution can function as an effective Android management solution. As the name suggests, UEM solutions are designed to provide centralized management and control over various types of endpoints. As a general rule (owing to Android’s popularity 😁), most UEM solutions have provisions to manage Android devices. Simply put, they offer a comprehensive set of features and capabilities specifically tailored to manage Android devices effectively. Let’s quickly skim over the basics of how a UEM solution can serve to manage Android devices.

• Device enrollment: UEM solutions support different enrollment methods for Android devices, including manual enrollment, QR code-based enrollment, NFC (Near Field Communication) enrollment, and zero-touch enrollment. These methods simplify the addition of devices to the management system and ensure consistency across the fleet.
• Policy and configuration management: UEM solutions allow organizations to define and enforce policies, configure settings, and apply restrictions on Android devices. This includes managing network settings, security configurations, device restrictions, and application policies. The UEM console provides a centralized interface to configure and push policies to Android devices.
• Application management: UEM solutions offer application management features specific to Android devices. Administrators can deploy, update, and remove applications remotely, manage app configurations, enforce app installations, and whitelist or blacklist specific apps. They can also distribute enterprise-specific apps through managed app stores or sideloading.

How to zero in on a UEM to manage your Android devices?

That’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it? Well, with a little help from yours truly here 😌, you probably wouldn’t have to shell out too much for a UEM solution that can manage all your Android devices. Here’s what you should keep in mind while you pen down your list of needs.

Assess your organization’s needs:

Start by understanding your organization’s device management requirements. Consider factors such as the size of your device fleet, the types of devices you use, the level of security needed, specific compliance regulations, and any unique workflows or applications your organization relies on.

Research available solutions:

Conduct thorough research to identify the UEM options that align with your organization’s needs. Look for reputable vendors, read product documentation, compare features, and consider customer reviews and ratings.

Evaluate key features:

Pay attention to the key features offered by each device management software. Let’s take a quick tumble down the essential features slope:

• Device enrollment: Firstly, assess the ease and flexibility of the enrollment process for adding devices to the management system.
• Policy and configuration management: Then, evaluate the UEM’s ability to define and enforce policies, configure settings, and apply restrictions on devices.
• Provisions for BYOD: Also, check out how well the UEM solution can employ Android Enterprise to manage and secure personal Androids deployed in a corporate setting.
• Application management: Don’t forget to consider the UEM’s capabilities for deploying, managing, and updating applications across devices.
• Security and Compliance: Ensure the software offers robust security measures like device encryption, remote lock and wipe, and compliance enforcement to meet your organization’s security requirements.
• Remote management and support: Look for features that enable remote troubleshooting, control, and support for devices, allowing IT teams to assist users and resolve issues efficiently.
• Integration: Consider whether the device management software integrates smoothly with your existing IT infrastructure, such as identity management systems or help desk software.
• Reporting and Analytics: Finally, assess the reporting and analytics capabilities of the software, including insights into device performance, compliance status, and usage patterns.

Yup, that just about covers the whole of it. Basically, jot down your list of requirements and then cross it with the options provided by the different Android management solutions. And you’re good to go!

Consider user experience:

Evaluate the user experience for both administrators and end-users. An intuitive and user-friendly interface, along with clear documentation and support resources, can improve productivity and reduce training time.

Check compatibility:

Verify that the device management software supports a wide range of Android devices, operating system versions, and manufacturers. Compatibility ensures consistent management across your fleet and accommodates device diversity.

Security and Privacy:

Carefully assess the security measures implemented by the device management software provider. Ensure they follow industry best practices, comply with data privacy regulations, and provide regular updates and patches to address security vulnerabilities.

Pricing and Scalability:

Consider the pricing model of the UEM solution, whether it’s based on the number of devices or users. Evaluate the cost-effectiveness based on your organization’s size and budget. Additionally, ensure that the software can scale with your organization’s future growth without compromising performance.

Trial and Testing:

Take advantage of free trials or demos that the UEM providers offer. Test the software with a subset of your device fleet to assess its functionality, ease of use, and compatibility with your organization’s requirements.

Vendor support and Reputation:

Research the reputation and track record of the device management software vendor. Consider factors such as customer support quality, responsiveness, and the vendor’s commitment to regular updates and product improvement.

Seek recommendations and references:

Reach out to industry peers or professional networks to gather insights and recommendations. Additionally, request references from the UEM vendors to directly speak with their existing customers and learn about their experiences.

At the end of the day, the UEM solution you choose should perfectly fit the missing piece to manage your Android devices in the jigsaw that is your organization.

How well would Hexnode manage Android devices in an organization?

Your choice of UEM solution to manage the Android devices in your organization should fit your IT infrastructure like a glove. Be that as it may, Hexnode is a UEM solution that checks most of the boxes to effectively manage your Android devices. Hexnode is a robust Android management solution that offers several advantages for organizations. Its capabilities include:

Comprehensive device management features

Hexnode provides a comprehensive set of device management features tailored for Android devices. And so, it offers capabilities such as device enrollment (authenticated, Android Enterprise, Android Zero-Touch, Samsung Knox and Android ROM/OEM based enrollment), policy and configuration management, application management, security controls, remote support, reporting and analytics, and more. This breadth of features ensures organizations can efficiently manage and control their Android device fleet.

Zero-touch enrollment

Hexnode supports Android’s zero-touch enrollment method, thus simplifying device provisioning and reducing deployment time. Zero-touch enrollment enables devices to be automatically enrolled and configured with organizational policies and settings as soon as they are turned on, making device onboarding seamless and hassle-free.

Enhanced security measures

Hexnode emphasizes strong security measures to protect Android devices and data. And so, it supports features like device encryption, passcode enforcement, app blacklisting/whitelisting, secure app distribution, remote lock and device wipe, and real-time security compliance monitoring. These measures help organizations maintain data security, achieve regulatory compliance, and mitigate security risks.

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Hexnode Android Management Solution

The Android MDM solution from Hexnode lets you manage every Android device in an enterprise with maximum ease of use and flexibility.

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OEMConfig considerations

Hexnode UEM leverages OEMConfigs to provide a framework for configuring and managing device settings and policies. It utilizes the capabilities and options provided by the OEM through the OEMConfig app, allowing administrators to access and customize specific settings on supported devices. However, Hexnode does not have direct control over the content or configurable settings provided by the OEM.

Customizable policies and configuration management

Hexnode allows organizations to define and enforce granular policies and configurations to meet their specific requirements. Administrators can tailor policies related to network settings, app restrictions, device restrictions, security settings, and more. Accordingly, this flexibility ensures that organizations can align device behavior with their unique needs.

Kiosk/Digital signage needs

For organizations that deploy their Android devices as digital signages or are interested in setting up and managing kiosks in their corporate Androids, Hexnode has a lot to offer! With dynamic content delivery, easy management, and remote control, Hexnode empowers businesses to display engaging content on Android devices effortlessly.

Remote troubleshooting and support

Hexnode’s remote management capabilities enable IT teams to remotely troubleshoot issues and provide support to end-users. Moreover, features like remote control, screen sharing, and file transfer facilitate efficient problem resolution without requiring physical access to devices. This leads to faster issue resolution and improved user satisfaction.

Extensive application management

Hexnode offers robust application management features for Android devices. It allows organizations to distribute, update, and remove applications remotely. Additionally, organizations can manage app configurations, enforce app installations, and control access to public and enterprise-specific app stores. This ensures effective app management and control across the device fleet.

Seamless integration and APIs

Hexnode provides APIs and supports integration with other IT systems and tools, including identity management, help desk software, and asset management systems. So basically, this seamless integration enables organizations to streamline workflows, automate processes, and maintain a cohesive IT environment.

Scalability and Performance

Hexnode is designed to scale with the growing needs of organizations, supporting large-scale Android device deployments. Accordingly, it offers robust performance and stability, ensuring a smooth management experience even as the device fleet expands.

Excellent customer support

Hexnode is known for its responsive customer support, providing timely assistance and guidance to customers. It offers various support channels, including email, live chat, and call, to address customer queries and concerns promptly. Additionally, Hexnode has extensive documentation, including help docs, blogs, and other resources. Besides, Hexnode’s support team is available 25*5! Manage your Android devices with the promise of help just a call/email away.

Okay then, manage away your Android devices!

And that’s a wrap! Pick up a pencil and start away on drawing up the pros and cons list of the different UEM solutions to manage your Android devices. And while you are at it, check out Hexnode’s free trial and have 14 days of easy and effective management over your Android devices.