Mobile Device Management (MDM) is a necessity for any organization looking for an effective and efficient way to monitor its mobile assets. That said with the vast number of MDM solutions available in the market today, knowing which software is best for your business, and the factors that influence MDM pricing may become challenging, especially if you don’t know what to look for.
Why knowing MDM pricing is important
Consider this: More organizations are transitioning to a remote or hybrid setup and incorporating bring-your-own-device (BYOD) practices into their IT environment. While this allows for global teams to conveniently work together, it also means that you have different mobile devices worldwide that you need to manage. Ensuring the integrity of your mobile devices is not only a must – it’s a competitive advantage. A compromised mobile device may lead to:
MDM significantly reduces these risks and allows you to resolve threats proactively and pre-emptively. For industries that regularly interact with sensitive data, such as healthcare or finance, this tool is an absolute must.
It is essential to know the best MDM software that fits your organizational needs and current IT budget. It’s worth noting that various factors influence the cost of MDM, and what may “work” for your competitor may not be equally beneficial for you.
This MDM pricing guide provides an overview of all the factors influencing MDM cost.
How much does MDM cost? Factors to know
Not all MDM solutions offer the same features and functionalities. In fact, most vendors offer custom packages to suit specific needs and business requirements.
1. Scale of device management
Consider the number of devices and users you need to manage. A great way to assess this is to look at your industry and perceived security risk. What type of information is being received and passed through these mobile devices? Are high-level managers using mobile devices? Do all employees have their own assigned mobile devices? Answering these questions will help you determine the features you need, from device tracking to access management.
2. Feature set and customization options
Every organization has its own unique needs, and your MDM solution should be equally dynamic. A good mobile device management solution should help manage the mobile devices in your organization effectively. Ask your vendor about the different features available for you and whether they offer customization options. This can highly influence MDM pricing.
3. Cloud-based vs. on-premise deployment models
One of the major MDM cost factors is the deployment method you decide on – cloud-based or on-premises deployment. MDM on cloud manages your devices via the internet, either through a web portal or by downloading an MDM solution.
Either way, there are three cloud models you can choose from:
- Public cloud is cloud computing that is shared across organizations
- Private cloud is dedicated to your organization
- Hybrid cloud is an IT environment that uses both public and private clouds.
On the other hand, MDM on-premises requires a company-owned server to install the MDM software. Because everything is done in-house, this model does not require any third-party intervention, but you’ll need to pay people who have the expertise to set up and maintain the software solution. You’ll also need to consider the cost of actual hardware to manage the MDM tool.
Integration capabilities with existing systems
Never assume that your chosen MDM solution can integrate with your current systems. You can save yourself a lot of headaches by requesting a demo from your vendor, but remember that more robust integrations may also affect the cost of MDM. Still, ask your intended vendor whether and how easily their software integrates with your existing software.
MDM cost breakdown
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Subscription models: Per-device vs. per-user pricing
Most MDM software providers offer either a per-device or per-user pricing model. As their names suggest, these MDM pricing models charge your company a flat fee for every user or device. Keep in mind, though, that some vendors may include hidden fees based on integration capabilities or customization features. Take care to choose a provider that always prioritizes transparency and never includes any hidden fees.
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One-time setup and installation fees
This is usually what people think of when they ask, “How much does MDM software cost?” However, this upfront fee usually excludes hidden costs or other mobile device management expenses. It’s important to bring this subject matter up when you speak with a vendor about their MDM pricing. Most vendors won’t say this outright and will only include it in their managed services agreement. It’s best to mention this early on so you have a better idea of the cost of MDM.
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Additional costs for training, support, and maintenance
Consider additional training and maintenance MDM costs. This is especially true if your organization supports BYOD and is looking for a mobile management solution that provides support at lower prices. NinjaOne, for example, offers free and unlimited onboarding, training, and support for all its customers. This means that MDM pricing for NinjaOne is typically lower than its competitors.
Simplify mobile device management with NinjaOne.
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Understanding the total cost of ownership over time
Rather than only considering your one-time setup fee, your MDM pricing strategy should consider the total cost of ownership (TCO). Creating a TCO analysis with your IT department heads may be a good idea to examine whether a product is as cost-effective as you think.
MDM cost-saving strategies and best practices
Because most, if not all, mobile device management solutions are customized to your specific needs, it’s important that you work closely with your vendor to design software that meets all your requirements. You may be thinking, “How do I choose the right MDM vendor?”, especially if you have certain budget restraints. Here are some best practices that may help:
- Have a clear idea of what you want your MDM software to do.
- Meet with several vendors and conduct a vendor risk assessment.
- Ask for free demos.
- Review the terms of your contract and don’t be afraid to negotiate.
- Plan the implementation and integration processes well.
Most importantly, maintain a good working relationship with your vendor. You will be surprised: Having a good relationship with your MDM provider can save you MDM costs in the long run since you can also leverage their expertise to optimize your MDM strategy further.
Tips for negotiating MDM pricing with vendors
The best way to get the best MDM ROI is to come prepared when meeting with a provider. This means knowing your goals and requirements, from the number of devices you are (and will be) managing to the specific features your IT team needs.
Understanding your budget for the cost of MDM is equally crucial. This clarity helps better evaluate proposals and avoid overspending.
Lastly, never feel pressured to sign a contract if you do not feel ready. It’s perfectly okay to take your time and compare different vendors, their MDM pricing, and the features they offer. Always remember that a well-informed decision will save you time, money, and stress in the long run.
NinjaOne MDM manages, supports, and secures your mobile fleet in one easy-to-use solution.
Find the right MDM pricing for your business
MDM pricing is influenced by multiple variables, from subscription models to additional costs for training or support. When searching for how much MDM costs, it’s important to assess your specific needs, compare multiple vendors, and carefully negotiate your terms.
Understanding the different factors that affect MDM cost is the only way to select the most suitable MDM solution for your business. Ultimately, the most effective MDM tool is one that best aligns with your organization’s long-term goals, provides the necessary features, and offers a cost-effective approach to managing mobile devices.
NinjaOne’s MDM software has no forced commitments and no hidden fees. If you’re ready, request a free quote, sign up for a 14-day free trial, or watch a demo.
