Mobile application management software enables IT teams to control, provision, configure, block, and monitor applications installed on endpoint mobile devices. This includes both corporate owned endpoints (such as smartphones, laptops and tablets) and employee-owned devices that employees may be using for work purposes.
The key use case of mobile application management software is to apply and enforce corporate policies governing mobile apps and how corporate data can be shared across those applications. This can include provisioning mandated apps which all users should have access to, managing application updates and software licenses, configuring data protection policies, and blocking access to harmful applications which may spread malware. Mobile application management solutions can also be used to separate personal and corporate data stored on a user’s device.
MAM software is often used in conjunction with Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions as part of a more extensive Enterprise Mobility Management (EMM) strategy. These solutions work together to provide a comprehensive approach to securing and managing mobile devices, applications, and their associated content. MAM specifically focuses on controlling app access, usage, and security, while MDM targets device management and security.
Mobile application management software has several benefits for IT teams. They improve efficiency by providing an admin console with control over all applications installed on user mobile devices. They make it easier for teams to enroll and provision new users by ensuring they immediately have access to all of the applications they need. They also make it easier to offboard users with remote wipe capabilities.
Mobile application management also improves security. Admins can configure security policies to block harmful applications, reducing the risk of malware and phishing. They can also be used to enforce data protection policies across different applications and services, which can be difficult on an individual app by app basis. Mobile application management solutions can also be used to support secure bring-your-own-device workflows, enabling people to securely use their personal mobile devices in the workplace.
This list of vendors covers enterprise mobile application management solutions, typically delivered via a SaaS model. These solutions use a range of methods in order to facilitate enterprise control over third-party applications, including:
One of challenges of mobile application management is that organizations often need to support users across a range of operating systems. As such, many of the vendors on this list offer broad support for different devices and operating systems with an open approach to securing mobile apps. This is something to consider when selecting a mobile application management solution.
Mobile application solutions can offer a range of key features to support IT teams managing applications across mobile devices. Features to look for when selecting a mobile application management solution include: