Bushel MDM is a new offering from JAMF Software that is an 'easy-to-use for everyone' mobile device management (MDM) solution. It is an Apple only solution that covers device enrollment, inventory, and security features. The differentiating feature of this MDM is that it's designed from the ground up with ease of use in mind, so that anyone who needs to manage Apple devices in a business can do so with no extensive training or unnecessary complexity.
I had the pleasure of speaking with Charles Edge, Bushel Product Manager about Bushel and what it means for small and medium-sized businesses. Bushel is meant for those businesses who don't necessarily have a full-time IT person available to manage the company's devices, but who need management. And if the company does have an IT person or staff, they don't have to get bogged down with mobile device management as a full-time occupation.
Device Enrollment and Inventory
Bushel features easy, hands-free device configuration through the Apple Device Enrollment Program (DEP). Enrollment also means that your Apple devices are automatically added to inventory and tracked to ensure ongoing management features.
Application Distribution
Using Bushel, you can automatically install applications to all managed devices at once. This features saves time and prevents having to touch every device individually. Additionally, enrollment in Apple's Volume Purchasing Program (VPP) gives businesses the ability to limit which devices receive applications and lowering the overall costs by removing decommissioned or unused devices from distribution.
Security
Lost or stolen devices can be locked or wiped remotely. Businesses can enforce password use and automatic lock times. Bushel also allows for easy disk encryption and other control options to guarantee business data is kept safe.
Bushel manages Mac OS X-based computers, iPhones, iPads, and iPods.
Pricing
Bushel is free for three devices. Paid accounts begin at two dollars per month for four devices and two dollars per month for each additional device. And you're not locked into a long-term "gym membership" contract. Bushel is a pay-as-you-go model.
Bushel has made it very easy to get started with the product with the free three device account.
If you own a small business and need better controls over your Apple-based products, Bushel might be your answer. Take it for a spin and let me know what you think. Even if you currently use another MDM suite, try Bushel and give me your feedback. If I get enough response, I'll do a full review of it, using my old iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S as examples.
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