How Mobility Is Influencing End-User Computing
In recent years, we've seen a huge shift in end-user computer requirements, many of the changes we've seen haven't been in speed or power but in form factor, mobility and working remotely. The rapidly expanding need for employees to travel to various locations yet remain connected and still work efficiently has been the driving force behind these advances.
While there is still a need for a traditional desktop computer for staff who only complete work onsite, the market share continues to drop making way for laptops, tablets and hybrid devices.
Why still choose a desktop? There are two types of scenario which fit a Desktop PC
1. Administrative staff members who work only during business hours in the office using relatively simple software, given the transition to Cloud lower processing power is required.
In this situation we recommend the HP ProDesk 400 Mini, the miniature form factor combined with ample power and price makes this the machine of choice for most desktop users.
2. High usage staff who require a powerhouse with multiple screens and various intensive software for Graphic Design, Audio/Video editing etc.
In this situation we recommend the Think Concepts Workstation, custom built to the client's requirements, our machines can provide all the speed and reliability required coupled with the Think Concepts two year warranty.
Who needs a laptop? Honestly, everyone!
Of the vast range of hybrid computing options those that stand out are the few that don't compromise on power for their portability and retain a physical keyboard option. The technical differences are minimal in the higher end of this market, the more important choice is the form factor.
1. Microsoft Surface 4: With a detachable soft keyboard case and a reasonable price tag, the Surface provides a good option for most users looking for a hybrid.
2. Microsoft Lumia 950: Similarly to the x3 the Lumia can provide a full desktop experience once connected to the Display Dock.
Alongside the hardware changes, software has had to evolve to deal with intermittent network availability, lower powered end user machines and a plethora of different devices with different displays and input methods.
We're seeing a growing shift towards Cloud based applications, which work great on less powerful machines like tablets but these can pose issues when users don't have internet available - Cloud providers are currently working on the best balance between the two, making applications work seamlessly both offline and collaboratively online.
The question comes to mind, how can businesses manage this new more diverse environment? Users with mobile devices pose risks in relation to connecting to insecure networks and the controls over machine administration are often ceded to the user, it's essential to mitigate these risks with robust software as well as usage policies.
We can assist in securing these devices by deploying our remote administration agent Kaseya, implementing a managed Antivirus and even enrolling the devices in a MDM (Mobile Device Management) program so that they can be restricted and secured effortlessly.