Asset tracking

Fixed asset management is the process of maintaining, tracking, and managing physical assets such as vehicles, machinery, or equipment. Enterprise-owned mobile devices are an example of equipment that should be tracked to help maintain an organization’s operational, financial, and security health.

Reasons asset tracking is crucial for any mobile device program include:

• Helping organizations keep a detailed and up-to-date inventory of all devices used within the company
• Allowing IT administrators to ensure enterprise-owned devices are accounted for, properly configured, and compliant with organizational policies and regulations
• Managing the lifecycle of mobile devices, from initial deployment to eventual retirement, to ensure devices are efficiently and securely used throughout their lifespan
• Providing accurate data for financial reporting and productivity so organizations can maximize how devices contribute to operational efficiency
• Addressing the security risks associated with lost or stolen devices

Mitigating security risks is arguably the most important aspect of mobile asset tracking. At the most basic level, tracking can reduce the number of devices that are lost or stolen, thereby reducing the costs associated with replacing devices. And if a device is lost or stolen, a comprehensive, compliant mobile access management solution can quickly locate and lock it, or even perform a remote wipe to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data.

Regular audits and reports generated by a mobile access management solution with asset tracking can help IT teams identify devices that are out of compliance or need to be updated with the latest security patches. This proactive approach to mobile security helps organizations stay ahead of potential threats and ensures that all devices are operating in a secure environment.

Mobile asset tracking can also enhance operational efficiency by streamlining the management of device licenses and subscriptions. IT administrators can monitor the usage of applications and services, ensuring that licenses aren't wasted and that costs are optimized. Providing real-time visibility into device usage and performance is critical, therefore the best asset tracking process is one that helps IT teams make informed decisions about resource allocation and budgeting.