By Michael Dyson, VP of Sales, APAC, SOTI
Australia’s national mobile network is constantly advancing. In 2024, major providers announced the shutdown of 3G networks to allow for the expansion and improvement of 4G and 5G networks. This year, Telstra announced it will make a significant investment in enhancing Australia’s mobile network, laying the foundation for a 6G future. For organisations managing mobile workforces or large fleets of connected devices, this innovation creates exciting new possibilities, from real-time data analytics to immersive customer interactions. However, these advancements also introduce complexities around device security, scalability, and effective management, as well as data and application management complexities that require more sophisticated approaches to Enterprise Mobility Management (EMM).
Bridging The Gap Between Speed and Operational Efficiency
In the fast-paced, always-on environment, downtime is a business risk. Recent SOTI research, The Road Ahead: Driving Digital Transformation in T&L, found that Australian Transportation and Logistics (T&L) workers lose approximately 16 hours per employee per month due to mobile device issues. These disruptions translate directly into lost productivity, increased overtime costs, and decreased employee morale, challenges that could escalate as organisations increasingly rely on high-speed, always-on connectivity.
This research reveals that 39% of mobile workers lack immediate access to IT support or training apps when problems occur. As expectations for seamless connectivity rise, these gaps in support can significantly impact business performance. Advanced EMM solutions must integrate real-time troubleshooting and predictive analytics, proactively identifying and resolving issues before they escalate. By embedding remote support capabilities into device management solutions, organisations can ensure uninterrupted productivity and seamless mobile workforce operations.
Enhancing Security Amid Growing Connectivity
With every advancement in network speed and reach comes a broader attack surface. According to the same research, 53% of employees fear that lost or stolen devices could compromise sensitive customer data, and 54% are concerned about breaches from device sharing. This highlights the need for advanced security embedded directly within next-generation EMM solutions.
Advanced EMM must move beyond basic password protection, incorporating sophisticated security measures such as secure user authentication, end-to-end encryption, and zero-trust frameworks. These capabilities reduce vulnerabilities and ensure data protection at every touchpoint, safeguarding both operational integrity and customer trust in an increasingly connected digital ecosystem.
Leveraging Real-Time Analytics and Predictive Insights
Faster networks enable real-time data collection from mobile devices, but collecting data is only the first step. The ability to interpret, analyse, and act on this data is where true business value lies. Modern EMM solutions give businesses the tools to continuously monitor key performance indicators like battery life, application uptime, and network reliability.
By leveraging real-time analytics, organisations can shift from reactive IT support to proactive device management. This helps pre-empt performance issues, extend device lifespan, and support more efficient mobile operations, all while meeting rising expectations around digital performance.
Sustainability and The Broader Business Impact
Beyond efficiency and performance, organisational sustainability is becoming a necessity. SOTI’s research highlights that 100% of surveyed Australian T&L employees see their companies taking environmental action seriously, with over half willing to leave employers who fail to demonstrate adequate sustainability efforts.
In this context, advanced EMM solutions serve a dual purpose, supporting operational enhancement and environmental responsibility. By optimising device lifecycles, reducing unnecessary hardware replacements, detecting application and battery issues to minimise device replacements, and minimising costly manual interventions with remote support functionality, modern EMM solutions significantly contribute to sustainability efforts. This demonstrates how technology investments deliver broader, socially responsible outcomes.
A Unified Approach For a Connected Future
Historically, EMM solutions have focused primarily on core capabilities like device tracking, app management, and basic security. While these foundational elements remain critical, the increasing complexity brought on by greater connectivity and a wider variety of devices means organisations need more than just traditional EMM. Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) builds on the strengths of EMM by offering a single, integrated platform to manage mobile phones, tablets, desktops, IoT devices, and more.
SOTI MobiControl demonstrates how advanced EMM solutions are evolving into full Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) platforms. It enables continuous monitoring to quickly identify and resolve device issues, alongside enhanced security features such as automated threat detection and zero trust architecture. The SOTI ONE Platform also offers real-time data and device analytics to proactively manage device performance to maintain worker productivity and operational efficiency, as well as automation and orchestration tools to simplify updates, streamline management, and enforce consistent policies across all endpoints. By embracing these expanded capabilities, businesses can ensure their technology infrastructure remains agile, secure, and adaptable. By embracing these expanded capabilities, businesses can ensure their technology infrastructure remains agile, secure, and adaptable.
Embracing Complexity, Driving Innovation
As networks continue to evolve, while EMM solutions remain essential, their new role with expanded capabilities has rapidly evolved. Advanced EMM now integrates seamlessly into UEM, offering comprehensive control across diverse devices and platforms. These solutions support organisations by reducing device downtime, enhancing device security, and supporting sustainability, all while remaining agile during technological change. By embracing advanced EMM solutions, businesses can confidently navigate complexity and maximise the full potential of their connected workforce.
To learn more about how SOTI’s mobile device management solutions can help your organisation stay ahead in an ever-connected world, visit soti.net.
