Mobile BPM support provides significant advantages for enterprises looking to incorporate BYOD and other smartphone- and tablet-related trends in their operations. The increasing popularity of using mobile devices as part of work introduces new opportunities, but IT teams can be challenged by the new platforms, devices and development languages introduced at the same time. As such, it is critical for enterprises to embrace the BPM software necessary to support their IT needs for app development and process management as a whole.
Complexity
New devices and platforms introduce significant complexity to operations that not all companies are able to easily overcome. The challenges presented by mobility can require significant money, time and other resources. However, with the right BPM solution in place, firms can streamline their operations around these challenges and leap every hurdle in their paths.
Fragmentation
The varying platforms present another unique risk in the form of device fragmentation. Developing an applications that allows for collaboration regardless of employee device preference may seem daunting, but the problems and costs presented by forcing workers to conform to a single device type or purchasing smartphones and tablets for them would outweigh the benefits. By utilizing a BPM suite that works well across a broad spectrum of platforms, companies can mitigate this problem and ensure compatibility with any device.
Security
Data and process security is an oft-cited concern with mobility initiatives. IT executives and other business leaders need assurances that their IP won't be at risk due to a BYOD policy. Improved accessibility and support of worker needs through a more secure platform will ensure that companies aren't putting their data out there for cyber thieves, without reducing the advantages provided by these tools in the first place. This is enhanced by ensuring that the applications used are native to the devices, but support HTML5 web browsing as well.
By being able to deploy natively regardless of device type without the added effort of developing multiple apps, companies will be able to optimize their business process management needs and optimize mobile initiatives. Appian's latest offering, which includes self-assembling interface layer technology, will ensure compatibility and success at every turn, while optimizing workflow around the tools that workers actually need to get their jobs done.
Mobility is a key aspect of modern enterprise operations, and companies can ill afford to avoid it because of concerns that are easily sidestepped with the right BPM software in place.
Cindy Cheng
Director of Product Marketing
