When it comes to employee productivity, few things are as beneficial as allowing each user to choose the tools that work best for them. For IT, this means creating an environment that allows employees to pick their preferred OS platform. When given the choice, many users will choose a .

In order to properly integrate Mac into the enterprise network, IT needs the knowledge to ensure smooth implementation and ongoing support. Mac is not particularly difficult or overly complex to manage; but the processes for provisioning, securing, patching and updating are different compared to the processes associated with other operating systems. Therefore, IT teams do not usually have a solid understanding of how to apply the same deployment and management processes to Mac.

To help make your Mac deployment as smooth as possible, we’re sharing best practices from the WEI team, based on our own experience in managing Mac in the workplace.

1. Understand How Apple Provisioning Works

While provisioning Mac is not overly complex, the process differs significantly from the more traditional imaging process. More specifically, Apple provisioning is done through the , which runs in the cloud and can be accessed through the application.

After registering device serial numbers in DEP, IT will enroll the devices in a mobile device management (MDM) tool. The tool allows IT to set up group policy objects (GPO), which includes settings for the configuration profiles of users according to their designated user group. It also indicates which applications users should see on their desktop and their security access settings. This process, while not complex, is often completely foreign to IT teams who have only worked in Windows environments.

The most important benefit of Apple’s process is that, because the MDM installs the applications and the settings to the devices via the , end users can start working without IT ever having to physically touch their Mac during the provisioning process.

2. Deliver Updates to Mac Efficiently

The process for applying security patches and OS updates for Mac is simplified with a free service from Apple called macOS Updates.

For Mac, it can be especially important to test different device configurations to make sure patches and updates won’t break any operating systems and applications in the environment. Specific services to test include the ability to log into email, utilize VPN services, and access files in shared drives. It’s especially important to test when deploying antivirus software, which can sometimes break the OS and cause machines to crash.

To manage the process, it’s best to utilize a dedicated Apple Software Update Server, but an alternative to purchasing it is to manage and test patches on Windows and Linux machines. Open source tools, such as Reposado and Munki, which run on MDM platforms from Jamf and AirWatch, can act just like Apple’s software update mechanisms, allowing IT to push updates to end users the same way they would do so from the update server.

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3. Secure Mac With Authentication Measures

The primary way to ensure Mac security is two-factor authentication. In addition to requiring user names and passwords, IT can require users to request a code that is sent via a text message that they have to enter to gain access. Alternatively, IT can give users a thumb drive to plug into their devices. Without either the code or the thumb drive, users cannot log in and authenticate their identity.

For user identity services, Active Directory is the primary tool that IT teams will be familiar with. However, Mac can have performance issues when joined directly to it. To simplify the process, IT teams can use tools like Apple Enterprise Connect and Jamf Connected to eliminate the need for local machines to be directly joined to Active Directory, while also tracking account credentials on local machines. This approach simplifies the login process for end users while still giving IT departments the ability to enforce policies, such as requiring users to change passwords every three months.

4. Simplify Support for Mac

Our final best practice tip is the most important: Do everything in your power to simplify technical support for your Mac users. The easier it is for users to get the technical support they need, the easier it will be for IT to deploy and administer Mac. The first step is ensuring that your Mac device users know exactly who to contact when they have issues. This will ensure users can get the help they need quickly and efficiently, reducing the likelihood of security risks or other issues going ignored and speeding along the updating and patching process.

Self-service applications, run by tools from Jamf and Munki that behave similarly to the App Store, can reduce support desk phone calls and tickets. This is due to users having access to already approved and safe applications whenever they need them.

Additionally, the ability to run simple maintenance tasks to fix minor issues will also help users feel empowered and ensure little problems get fixed quickly, instead of sitting in the IT queue.

Are You Ready To Deploy Mac?

Implementing Mac for those employees who consistently request them drives productivity, collaboration and creativity throughout the enterprise. For IT teams, especially those without prior Mac experience, initial deployment can seem complex, but by following the best practices we outlined above, as well as making use of the business tools Apple offers, your users can be up and running in no time.

NEXT STEPS: As an Apple Authorized Reseller, WEI has extensive knowledge of Apple products. Our Apple services are customized to your unique business and always incorporate Apple deployment and management best practices. Learn more by visiting our Apple page or check out our refreshed tech brief, “Five Steps For Digital Workplace Success With Apple.”

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The digital revolution is changing the way businesses operate and how people work. Employees desire flexibility and the option to work anytime from anywhere from the devices that they prefer. With freedom of choice, employees have more control over their work experience, resulting in higher job satisfaction and increased productivity. Enterprises report that the majority of their . Apple helps companies empower their employees through personalized, optimized work environments. With the Apple Business Manager solution, setup and support of Apple devices is simple and seamless. It has become easier and more cost-effective than ever to give your employees the freedom to choose.

Improving Productivity

Employees often perform better in a personalized work environment. Productivity increases when employees can use the devices and applications that they prefer. Apple supports core business apps and services, like and . Many industry and workflow-specific legacy apps have also been modernized for compatibility with Apple devices. However, employees are not limited only to essential business apps using Apple devices. Self-service tools allow users to install personal productivity apps and other tools that can help them maximize their performance. With Apple’s advanced security architecture, devices can be used for both personal and business needs.

Reducing Demands on IT

Downtime is also reduced when employees use devices that they are familiar with. Many employees already own personal Apple devices and know-how to troubleshoot issues. When staff members can provide their own tech support, it increases productivity throughout the enterprise. Minor issues do not result in hours of downtime, and IT is free to focus on business goals. The addition of further encourages self-support and self-sufficiency. An AppleCare integrated help desk shifts the goal of tech support. Instead of IT professionals fixing every tech issue, employees are taught to investigate, and problem solve. AppleCare also provides support for IT staff to ensure that Apple devices are efficiently integrated and supported.

Attracting Top Talent

Studies show that employees are more productive, efficient, and satisfied when empowered to use the devices that they prefer. The vast majority prefer Apple products. Freedom of choice gives your company an edge in recruiting and keeping top talent. With Apple, your employees will have the tools they need to maximize productivity and innovation.

Apple Business Manager

In the past, devices were purchased in bulk from a single manufacturer to ensure compatibility and easy management. It was impractical for IT to support numerous devices with different requirements. However, technology has advanced, and it is now much easier to manage a variety of devices. Apple Business Manager is designed to work with your mobile device management (MDM) solution. Apple Business Manager simplifies every aspect of Apple device deployment and management.

Automated Deployment – Devices can be automatically enrolled in your MDM solution during setup, eliminating the need for manual configuration.

Content Management – IT can purchase and distribute apps, individually or in bulk, and manage licenses for all users.

Configuration – Accounts, security, apps, and data can be configured over-the-air for each device.

Managed Updates – IT can delay or push updates to devices to ensure constant, effective security.

Security and Control – IT can remotely supervise devices and impose extra restrictions or security solutions.

Apple devices maximize security and privacy for both work-related and personal data. All Apple products have a secure management framework built-in, and every app is verified before launch. Granular management tools give IT valuable insight without sacrificing employee privacy. IT can access the settings and information necessary to keep corporate data secure, but personal data is restricted. This separation helps protect company data and ensures employee privacy.

Employees prefer a modern work experience built on flexibility and personalization. The ability to choose the devices that they prefer is a key element of this new work environment. Freedom of choice generates increased productivity, innovation, and job satisfaction. Surveys show that Apple products are the top choice for the majority of employees. enables enterprises to seamlessly deploy and manage Apple devices. With Apple Business Manager, IT can remotely support and configure devices, apps, and accounts. Apple’s strong security framework ensures that both corporate and personal data remain secure. Apple Business Manager is a streamlined, comprehensive solution to help you provide your employees with freedom of choice.

NEXT STEPS: Discover tips for success in order to deploy Apple devices the right way by downloading our white paper titles “Success Tips for Integrating Apple in the Enterprise”

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