How to Decide if You Should Build or Buy Device Management | Fleet Geek Ep. 4

Summary

In this insightful discussion, Keith Scott from Esper examines the critical decision of whether to build or buy a device management solution for dedicated device fleets. He emphasizes the importance of robust infrastructure in managing devices that operate independently in the field. While building a custom solution may seem appealing, it often strains resources and may not meet evolving business needs. Scott advocates for outsourcing to experienced providers like Esper, which offer ongoing support and updates, allowing companies to focus on core initiatives. Ultimately, the right choice hinges on balancing operational requirements and strategic growth.

Takeaways

• 📊 Effective device management is crucial for success in dedicated device environments.
• 🤔 Businesses must decide whether to build their own device management solution or buy from a software partner.
• 💡 Building a custom solution requires significant developer resources and ongoing maintenance.
• 🔍 A static device setup may allow for a build approach, but complexity often necessitates buying a solution.
• 📈 Buying a solution offers immediate access to comprehensive infrastructure and features.
• 🛠️ A good device management platform ensures seamless handling of various operating systems and device types.
• 🚀 Choosing the right infrastructure aligns with business growth and future adaptability.
• 💰 Opportunity costs of dedicating resources to build infrastructure can impact overall business focus.
• ⚖️ The decision to build vs. buy should consider long-term implications and operational efficiency.
• 🌐 Platforms like Esper provide a robust solution, allowing companies to concentrate on core business objectives.

Q & A

What is the main topic discussed in the video?

The video discusses the important decision of whether to build or buy a device management platform, particularly for dedicated devices.

Who is the presenter of the video and what is their role?

The presenter is Keith Scott, the VP of Innovation Solutions at Esper.

What does MDM stand for and why is it significant?

MDM stands for Mobile Device Management. It is significant because it serves as a core piece of infrastructure necessary for effectively managing dedicated devices.

What are the potential downsides of building your own MDM?

Building your own MDM can be resource-intensive, requiring significant developer time and expertise, and may not be practical for businesses with diverse device needs.

What key considerations should businesses evaluate when deciding between building or buying MDM?

Businesses should evaluate their business model, use cases, developer resources, and future expansion plans.

When might it make sense for a company to build its own MDM?

It might make sense to build your own MDM if you have a very specific and static hardware configuration and can devote the necessary resources to manage it.

What are some advantages of purchasing MDM software from a provider like Esper?

Purchasing from a provider like Esper offers advanced features, ongoing support, and a consistent management experience across various device types, without the overhead of maintaining infrastructure.

What is the opportunity cost associated with building your own MDM?

The opportunity cost involves losing potential business development and innovation time that could be spent on other strategic initiatives instead of maintaining device management infrastructure.

What does Esper offer beyond traditional MDM services?

Esper offers a comprehensive infrastructure that includes DevOps capabilities for devices, application management, and tools to handle updates and configurations across different Android devices.

How does the diversity of a device fleet influence the decision to build or buy MDM?

A diverse device fleet typically makes building your own MDM impractical, as it requires more resources to manage multiple device types and configurations, leading many companies to opt for a purchased solution.