#None #Cybersecurity #Info-Tech Research Group #Device Management

Bridging the Device Management Gap in Hybrid Work

As the landscape of work evolves rapidly, driven by the shift towards hybrid models, organizations across the globe face emerging cybersecurity threats that could significantly impact their operational integrity. Recent findings from Info-Tech Research Group underscore the critical need for businesses to reassess their approach to device management. Rather than viewing this as a technical hurdle, companies must recognize it as a strategic priority necessary for securing their digital workspace.

The New Reality of Hybrid Work

The adoption of remote and hybrid work setups has complicated the technological landscape substantially. Organizations are not only managing an increasing number of devices but also the diverse platforms and networks associated with them. Info-Tech's research emphasizes that unified endpoint management (UEM) tools, essential for handling a variety of devices, have proliferated to the point of causing tool sprawl. This excessive variety can lead to increased vulnerabilities among endpoints, making it imperative for companies to streamline their device management strategies.

In their recently released blueprint, Build & Execute an Enterprise Device Management Strategy, Info-Tech Research Group provides a roadmap for IT leaders to help navigate this complex environment. This document highlights the need for a standardized device management framework that not only enhances security but also improves user satisfaction while optimizing operational efficiency.

The Blueprint for Device Management

To assist organizations in transitioning toward effective device management, Info-Tech outlines a three-step strategy
1. Set the Direction: The first step involves evaluating the current state of device usage along with identifying key business drivers and future goals. This foundational assessment allows organizations to create user personas based on employee roles, ensuring alignment between device strategies and organizational priorities.

2. Define the Offering: With user personas established, the next phase focuses on defining standard device offerings that align with user expectations and operational needs. This includes detailing services and policies such as provisioning guidelines, support structures, and compliance policies (for instance, Bring Your Own Device or BYOD policies).

3. Build the Roadmap: As organizations set their offerings and necessary policies, the focus shifts to creating a clear implementation roadmap. This strategy must cover identifying success metrics, setting timelines, assessing risks, and planning budgets to ensure a well-structured rollout and continuous improvement.

Addressing User Satisfaction

An essential revelation from Info-Tech's findings is that simply providing high-quality devices is insufficient for guaranteeing user satisfaction. Data indicates that user experience with IT remains unsatisfactory when support and infrastructure do not meet expectations, regardless of the quality of devices. Emily Sugerman, a senior research analyst at Info-Tech, stresses the necessity of pairing device enhancements with substantial user support. She states, "End users who encounter poor support or unresolved issues will remain dissatisfied with IT regardless of the devices they receive."

Consequently, organizations are encouraged to focus on bolstering their user support systems alongside device enhancements. This integrated approach will inevitably lead to enhanced productivity and an improved user experience.

Final Thoughts

In summary, as the hybrid work model continues to establish itself as a norm, organizations must adapt their device management strategies. Info-Tech Research Group emphasizes that best practices in device management not only secure vital company resources but also empower employee productivity in a digitally driven work environment. A well-structured device management strategy is not merely an IT task but a core component of an organization's resilience in navigating ever-evolving technological landscapes. To explore more about these insights and strategies, organizations can consult the comprehensive resources provided by Info-Tech.