Frontline device management

Standardize the management of rugged scanners, Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), Augmented Reality (AR) headsets, and non-Google Mobile Services (GMS)/Android Open Source Project (AOSP) based devices through a unified console. IBM MaaS360 simplifies large‑scale enrollment, policy deployment, and continuous device monitoring to maintain uptime across manufacturing lines and warehouses.

Scenario

Supported platforms: Android iOS

Shop-floor associates use rugged scanners, HMIs, AR headsets, and non-GMS/AOSP devices across warehouses and assembly lines. These devices must remain full time operational to maintain manufacturing schedules.

What IBM MaaS360 does

Device enrollment and provisioning:
- Enroll rugged, purpose-built, and non-GMS/AOSP endpoints from the same console as laptops and mobile devices.
- Support QR-code provisioning for rapid deployment.
- Enable Device Owner (DO) mode for full device control.
Management capabilities:
- Distribute and update applications remotely.
- Push OS updates during scheduled maintenance windows.
- Configure geofencing policies for location-based controls.
- Run remote locate, lock, and wipe operations.
- Provide remote troubleshooting and diagnostics.
Monitoring and analytics:
- Dashboard for battery health monitoring.
- Shared device usage tracking.
- User activity analytics.
- Device performance metrics

Implementation steps

Prepare your environment:
- Configure IBM MaaS360 portal with device groups for frontline workers.
- Create device enrollment profiles for rugged devices.
- Set up QR code provisioning method.
For more information, see Supported devices in MaaS360 based on operating system
Enroll devices:
- Scan a QR code to initiate enrollment.
- Device automatically configures with Device Owner (DO).
- Apps and policies deploy automatically. For more information, see Apps and Security
Configure policies:
- Set battery health thresholds and alerts.
- Configure app update schedules.
- Enable location tracking for asset management.
Monitor and maintain:
- Review battery health dashboard weekly.
- Track device usage patterns.
- Schedule OS updates during off-hours.

For more information on portal administration functions, device management, software distributions, policy self-service, and device compliance functions, see IBM MaaS360 Portal.

Expected outcomes

Lower downtime: Faster issue resolution through remote diagnostics
Consistent security: Unified security posture across all device types
Reduced manual effort: Automated onboarding and updates
Better asset usage: Usage analytics optimize device allocation