Modern manufacturing now replies more on data - across factory floors and assembly lines, web applications are rapidly replacing traditional paper-based processes.
Production dashboards provide real-time visibility into output, digital quality monitoring forms ensure every product meets standards, and asset tracking tools offer end-to-end traceability.
This digital shift has brought unprecedented benefits: a more efficient workflow, greater accuracy, and the ability to make data-driven decisions on the fly.
However, as operations become increasingly reliant on web apps—accessed via shared Android tablets, large-screen devices, and even Android TVs—IT departments are facing new and complex device management challenges.
A simple app is no longer enough; the entire device ecosystem must be secured and controlled to maintain operational efficiency.
1 Typical Device Usage in Manufacturing
Operators Using Tablets for Production Data
In a typical manufacturing setting, operators are armed with rugged Android tablets, such as the Oukitel RT3.
These devices are purpose-built to withstand the demanding conditions of a factory floor—dust, drops, and spills.
Operators use these tablets to access a custom-built manufacturing web app. Here, they can input production data, view real-time Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and scan QR codes on parts to quickly access digital forms for quality control or maintenance logs.
The tablet becomes a critical tool for their daily tasks, transforming what was once a manual, error-prone process into a streamlined digital workflow.
Large Displays Running Web Apps
Beyond handheld devices, large Android TVs or dedicated industrial screens are often deployed across the factory floor.
These displays run web apps to show real-time production dashboards, safety alerts, or a live feed of the assembly line.
While effective for broadcasting information to a team, these devices present unique challenges.
They may lack the robust management features of standard Android phones or tablets, and Android TV, for example, often has limited accessibility permissions, making it difficult for IT to configure and control them remotely.
3 Key Challenges with Web App Usage in Manufacturing Devices
As web apps become central to manufacturing operations, IT departments encounter several recurring pain points:
- Enrollment Complexity: Each device requires manual configuration of settings like the APN (Access Point Name) to ensure network connectivity, setting the correct Chrome homepage, and installing the necessary web app. This process is time-consuming and prone to human error, leading to delays and inconsistent device setups.
- Security Risks: Without proper controls, a device intended for a single purpose becomes a potential security risk. An operator might accidentally or intentionally navigate away from the approved manufacturing web app to browse other websites, download unauthorized content, or access unsecure public Wi-Fi. This opens the door to malware, data breaches, and non-compliance issues.
- User Experience: In the absence of a dedicated management solution, tablets can become cluttered with unnecessary apps and notifications. This creates a confusing and distracting user experience for operators, who just need a simple, direct path to their work. This clutter can increase the likelihood of operator errors and reduce overall productivity.
- Remote Troubleshooting: While a rugged device is durable, software issues and user errors are inevitable. When an operator faces a technical issue—a frozen screen, a broken connection, or a misconfigured setting—IT needs a way to troubleshoot remotely. Sending a technician to the factory floor for every minor issue is inefficient and costly, but constant remote monitoring is not required for daily operations.
4 How MDM Solves These Challenges
AirDroid Business MDM solution is the key to transforming these pain points into streamlined, secure operations.
Fast & Controlled Enrollment
MDM automates the entire device setup process. With tools like zero-touch enrollment or QR code scanning, IT can provision a new device in minutes.
The MDM platform automatically pushes the correct APN settings, pre-configures the Chrome homepage, and silently installs the necessary web apps without any manual intervention. This ensures every device in the fleet is consistent, secure, and ready to use in record time.
Kiosk Mode for Focused Access
MDM's kiosk mode is a powerful tool for enforcing a single-purpose device. By activating this feature, IT can restrict the device's access to only the approved manufacturing web app.
This locks down the device, disabling web browsing, social media, games, and any other non-essential applications. The operator is presented with a clean interface that allows them to focus solely on their work, eliminating distractions and misuse.
Streamlined Operator Experience
Kiosk mode not only enhances security but also significantly improves the user experience.
When a device is powered on, it boots directly into a clean homepage with only the manufacturing web app visible.
This intuitive interface reduces the cognitive load on operators, minimizes the chance of user error, and improves overall productivity. The simplicity of the device allows the operator to focus on their task, not on navigating the technology.
Occasional Remote Support
MDM platforms provide IT with on-demand remote access to any device in the field. When an operator reports an issue, an IT admin can take remote control of the tablet to diagnose and resolve the problem instantly, without leaving their desk.
This functionality saves valuable time and resources, eliminating the need for constant monitoring while providing a safety net for any technical hiccup.
5 Example Manufacturing Use Case
Imagine a generic manufacturer with a fleet of 200 Android tablets for its production line.
Before MDM
- Each new tablet had to be manually set up. An IT technician would spend 20 minutes per device, manually setting the Chrome browser homepage to the correct URL and trying to ensure operators wouldn't close the browser.
- Once deployed, operators would often navigate away to browse social media or watch videos during downtime. This resulted in frequent IT tickets and significant loss of productivity.
After MDM
- The manufacturer adopted an MDM solution. With a simple QR code, each tablet was enrolled in less than a minute. The MDM platform automatically configured the Wi-Fi and APN settings, pushed the web app’s URL to the device, and locked the browser into kiosk mode.
- The tablets were now permanently restricted to the single web application, making it impossible to visit other sites. When an operator had a question, IT could instantly remote in to provide support. The result was a 95% reduction in setup time, no more device misuse, and a 40% drop in IT support tickets.
6 Why MDM is Essential for Web App-Based Manufacturing
As manufacturing continues its digital transformation, the use of web apps on shared Android devices will only grow. Without a robust MDM solution, this progress is threatened by risks of device misuse, wasted IT time, and poor user experience.
AirDroid Business MDM solution provides the essential foundation for success. It delivers a fast, automated setup process, a secure and controlled operating environment, and a streamlined user experience.
By managing these devices efficiently, IT leaders can ensure that the benefits of real-time data and web-based operations are fully realized, leading to higher productivity, enhanced security, and a more resilient manufacturing process.
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