In an increasingly digital world, Apple products have become ubiquitous in businesses of all sizes and across diverse industries. Mac, iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch are being leveraged in ways that were once unimaginable. Today, we delve into Apple’s modernized deployment strategies for hybrid work, focusing on their commitment to user experience, security, and overall efficiency.
Ensuring User-centricity and Security
Apple’s success in the corporate world can be attributed to its unwavering dedication to enhancing user experience while maintaining the highest standards of security. Apple recognizes the concerns of its customers—especially when it comes to security—and has taken significant steps to make Mac one of the most secure computing platforms.
Over the past decade, Apple has introduced a range of security features to the Mac, including anti-malware protections, system integrity protection, and hardware integration with Touch ID. These measures, coupled with free annual updates, have fortified Mac security while preserving the user experience. With the advent of Apple Silicon, Mac users can enjoy even greater security and faster security updates, ensuring their devices remain protected in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Deployment and Management for the Hybrid Work Era
As businesses increasingly adopt hybrid work models, the importance of effective deployment and management of a device platform like Mac has never been more critical. Apple offers a comprehensive approach to streamline these processes.
Apple Business Manager: The journey begins with Apple Business Manager, a free service designed to simplify deployments. It enables remote configuration and management of Apple devices, making it essential for organizations looking to achieve zero-touch deployment. By enrolling devices in Apple Business Manager, IT administrators gain the ability to assign and configure devices with ease.
Choosing the Right MDM Solution: It’s vital to select a mobile device management (MDM) solution that leverages Apple’s native APIs effectively. Mapping out your organization’s management requirements and evaluating MDM solutions against those needs is crucial. Additionally, selecting a vendor capable of keeping up with Apple’s annual OS updates is essential for maintaining security. Connection offers a great lineup of MDM solutions—including Jamf, VMware Workspace ONE, and Microsoft Intune.
Endpoint Security Framework: Apple’s Endpoint Security Framework offers a user-space replacement for low-level operating system event monitoring. Organizations should collaborate with security vendors that utilize this framework to stay on top of Apple’s security updates to minimize vulnerabilities.
Zero-touch Deployment: Zero-touch deployment automates the setup process for Mac, allowing for a seamless—and superior—user experience, right out of the box. It not only saves time but also ensures compliance and enhances security.
Closing Skill Gaps with Connection: Bridging the IT Divide
In the dynamic world of technology, staying ahead of the curve can be a daunting task for many organizations. Rapid advancements, new security threats, and evolving user expectations mean that IT departments often face skill gaps that can hinder their ability to fully harness the potential of Apple’s innovative solutions. At Connection, the focus is not just on providing technology but also on becoming a strategic partner in your digital journey. Here’s how Connection can help you close those skill gaps and ensure your IT team is always in sync with the latest advancements.
Expertise at Your Fingertips: With Connection, you gain access to a team of seasoned professionals who live and breathe technology. Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, our experts are here to assist. We understand that the IT landscape can be overwhelming, and our goal is to simplify it for you.
Technology Integration and Distribution Center (TIDC): Located in Wilmington, Ohio, our state-of-the-art TIDC spans 50,000 square feet. This center is not just a facility; it’s where we transform your IT vision into reality. From provisioning and configuring devices to managing large-scale deployments, the TIDC is equipped to handle it all. Our experience includes provisioning and deploying some of the largest Apple device deployments on record—so you can trust us to handle your project with precision.
Jamf Managed Service Provider: As a Jamf Managed Service Provider, we offer a comprehensive suite of services that extends beyond device provisioning. We can help you implement identity and security services such as Jamf Connect and Jamf Protect. Our expertise in these solutions ensures that your Apple ecosystem remains secure and user-friendly.
Warranty and Advanced Services: Our support doesn’t stop at deployment. We offer in- and out-of-warranty repair services through the TIDC, ensuring that your devices stay in optimal condition. Additionally, our advanced services portfolio includes options like advanced exchange and re-deployment, further enhancing the longevity and efficiency of your Apple devices.
Tailored Solutions for Your Industry: Whether you’re in business solutions, enterprise, public sector, retail, or healthcare, Connection has industry-specific expertise to cater to your unique needs. We understand that each sector comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities, and our solutions are designed to align with your goals.
Continuous Learning and Collaboration: Technology is an ever-evolving field, and staying current is imperative. Connection facilitates ongoing learning and collaboration opportunities for your IT team. We offer training sessions, workshops, and knowledge sharing to ensure your team remains up to date with the latest trends and best practices.
Connect with Us
Technology can make or break business success. Having a partner like Connection by your side is invaluable. We go beyond providing hardware and services; we empower your organization to thrive in the digital age.
Whether you’re facing skill gaps in your IT department, need assistance with a complex deployment, or simply want to ensure your technology investments are delivering maximum value, Connection is here to calm the confusion of IT. Our mission is to become your IT department’s IT department, so your organization can fully embrace the benefits of Apple’s modernized deployment strategies and succeed in the hybrid work era. Embrace the future of IT with confidence, supported by a partner you can trust.
To learn more about how we can help you close skill gaps and elevate your IT capabilities, visit Connection’s Apple Practice or reach out to your dedicated Connection Account Team today.
Chris Roux
Chris is Manager of Digital Partner Programs at Connection. He has more than 10 years of experience in IT product and marketing management. In his free time he enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter, doing volunteer work in his community, and playing basketball or tennis.
