3 Application Management

Basics

When called upon to administer MDM, you will likely have to understand how to interact with and manage services of relevant app stores supported by your district and understand distribution options. Distribution refers to a process of making approved apps available to groups of users on their devices. This module will address application installation, removal, and updates.

You should know the following terms:

  • App Store (Apple App Store, Google Play Store)
  • App Updates
  • Apple School Manager
  • Chrome Enterprise and Education
  • Distribution
  • Permissions
  • Version Control

Mobile Device Management (MDM) tools offer the ability to deploy applications to managed devices remotely. This ensures consistent app installation across multiple devices and simplifies the process for IT technicians. MDM tools also allow IT technicians to manage app permissions on devices, meaning you can control which features of a mobile device are available to different apps. Some of the features your IT department may want to control include which apps have access to sensitive data, cameras, or location services to ensure security and privacy.

The Apple App Store is the primary app distribution platform for iOS devices. Apps need to go through a review process before they are made available to users. Managed distribution options, such as Apple School Manager, allow educational institutions to distribute apps in volume to managed devices seamlessly.

The Google Play Store is the primary app distribution platform for Android devices. Developers can publish apps on the Play Store, and users can download and install them directly. Chrome Enterprise and Education is a collection of tools that provides management features for educational institutions using Chrome OS devices and the Chrome browser.

Keeping applications up to date is essential for security, bug fixes, and feature enhancements. MDM tools often offer features to control app updates, allowing IT technicians to manage the update process. In certain situations, it may be necessary to control the app versions on managed devices, referred to as version control. MDM tools can assist in enforcing specific app versions to maintain compatibility with other network resources or stability of operations. IT technicians may also need to remove unwanted or outdated apps from managed devices. MDM tools provide functionality to remove apps remotely, maintaining device performance and security.

Here are additional resources you may find useful:

Complete the following task or self-assessment:

Deploy a new educational app to a group of managed devices using your MDM tool. Check with your supervisor or director first to identify a good candidate to deploy. Follow the steps below:

  1. Select an educational app that aligns with the school's curriculum or educational goals.
  2. Ensure that the app is compatible with the devices and operating systems being used.
  3. Access your MDM tool's management console or portal.
  4. Locate the app deployment or app management section within the console.
  5. Follow the instructions provided by your MDM tool to add the new app to the managed app catalog or app store.
  6. Specify the target devices or device groups where the app should be installed.
  7. Configure any necessary app permissions or restrictions according to the school's policies.
  8. Initiate the deployment process and monitor the progress to ensure successful installation on the targeted devices.
  9. Verify that the app appears on the devices and functions correctly.
  10. Document the deployment process, including any challenges or issues encountered, and any troubleshooting steps taken.