Managing technology in the workplace can be a complex task, especially when it involves multiple devices. Apple Business Manager is a free, web-based portal designed to simplify the deployment and management of Apple devices—iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV—within an organization. It brings together everything IT teams need to get devices and content into the hands of employees, seamlessly and securely. This guide will explore its features, benefits, and why it’s a vital tool for modern businesses.
What is Apple Business Manager?
Apple Business Manager (ABM) is a central hub that allows IT administrators to automate device deployment, purchase and distribute apps, and manage roles and permissions for everyone in the organization. It integrates the functions of Apple’s previous programs, the Device Enrollment Program (DEP) and the Volume Purchase Program (VPP), into a single, unified service.
By linking with a Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution, ABM empowers businesses to configure and manage their Apple ecosystem from one place. This ensures that every device is set up correctly and securely from the moment it’s unboxed, without any manual intervention from the IT department.
Key Features of Apple Business Manager
ABM offers a suite of powerful features designed to make device management more efficient and secure.
Automated Device Enrollment
This is perhaps the most significant feature of Apple Business Manager. When you purchase devices from Apple or an authorized reseller, you can have them automatically enrolled into your MDM solution.
When an employee turns on a new device for the first time, it connects to Wi-Fi, and the built-in Setup Assistant guides them through activation. The device is automatically configured with account settings, apps, and access restrictions defined by your organization. This zero-touch deployment eliminates the need for IT to physically handle each device, saving immense time and resources.
Apps and Books Distribution
The Apps and Books section of ABM allows your organization to purchase app licenses and books in volume and distribute them to devices or users. This feature, formerly known as the Volume Purchase Program (VPP), streamlines content management.
You can assign apps to specific devices or to users via their Managed Apple IDs. When assigned to a device, the app is available to anyone who uses it. When assigned to a user, they can install it on any device they use. Importantly, your organization retains ownership of the app licenses. If an employee leaves, you can easily revoke the license and reassign it to someone else, protecting your investment.
Managed Apple IDs
Apple Business Manager enables you to create and manage a special type of Apple ID for your employees, known as Managed Apple IDs. These are owned and controlled by the organization, not the individual.
Managed Apple IDs give employees access to Apple services like iCloud for collaboration and backup, but with controls set by the IT department. For example, you can decide whether users can access FaceTime or iMessage. These IDs can also be integrated with your existing directory service, like Microsoft Azure Active Directory, allowing employees to sign in with their usual work credentials.
Role-Based Access Control
Security and proper delegation are critical. ABM provides a flexible, role-based access control system. You can assign different roles to various IT staff members, granting them specific permissions based on their responsibilities.
For instance, one person might have the role of Content Manager, responsible only for purchasing apps and books. Another could be a Device Enrollment Manager, focused on adding new devices to the system. This granular control ensures that individuals only have access to the functions they need, enhancing security and preventing accidental changes.
The Benefits for Your Business
Leveraging Apple Business Manager offers tangible advantages that directly impact your operations, security, and bottom line.
Streamlined IT Processes
The automation capabilities of ABM drastically reduce the manual workload for IT teams. Zero-touch deployment means devices can be shipped directly to remote employees, who can get started right away. This frees up IT staff to focus on more strategic initiatives instead of repetitive setup tasks. Centralized management of apps and user accounts further simplifies day-to-day administration.
Enhanced Security and Control
ABM, when paired with an MDM, gives you robust control over your fleet of Apple devices. You can enforce security policies, such as requiring passcodes, encrypting data, and restricting certain features. If a device is lost or stolen, you can remotely lock or wipe it to protect sensitive company information. Managed Apple IDs ensure that company data stays within the organization’s control, separate from personal accounts.
Scalability for Growth
Whether you are a small business with a handful of devices or a large enterprise with thousands, Apple Business Manager scales with you. The automated and centralized nature of the platform makes it just as easy to manage 1,000 devices as it is to manage 10. As your company grows and your technology needs evolve, ABM provides a stable and predictable framework for managing your Apple ecosystem.
Improved Employee Experience
A smooth and simple technology experience is key to employee satisfaction and productivity. With ABM, employees receive a new device that is ready to go, with all the apps and settings they need. There’s no frustrating setup process or lengthy calls to the help desk. This positive first impression sets the tone for their entire experience with company technology.
Getting Started with Apple Business Manager
Implementing ABM is a straightforward process:
- Enroll: Go to business.apple.com to sign up. You’ll need to provide information about your business, including a D-U-N-S number.
- Add Your MDM Server: Link your third-party MDM solution to your ABM account. This is a crucial step, as ABM and MDM work together.
- Add Devices: If you purchase devices from Apple or an authorized reseller, provide them with your Organization ID so new purchases are automatically added to your account. You can also manually add existing devices using Apple Configurator.
- Purchase Apps: Navigate to the Apps and Books section to start buying licenses for the software your team needs.
- Create Accounts: Set up Managed Apple IDs for your users, either manually or by connecting to your directory service.
A Cornerstone of Modern Device Management
Apple Business Manager is more than just a convenience; it’s an essential tool for any organization that uses Apple products. By automating deployment, simplifying content distribution, and enhancing security, it provides a powerful framework for managing your entire Apple ecosystem. It empowers IT teams to work more efficiently, gives employees a better user experience, and ensures that company data remains secure. For any business looking to streamline its operations and scale effectively, adopting Apple Business Manager is a strategic move.