The AppConfig Communitywas founded in 2016 to curtail a widespread issue encountered by developers, enterprise IT administrators, and enterprise mobility management (EMM) vendors: zero standards for enterprise mobile app configuration and security.
Before there were tools or best practices available, the pressure was on developers to build out custom app versions to support the individual requirements of each EMM vendor. This made otherwise simple app deployments a tedious and time-consuming endeavor for all parties involved. When considering the vast number of enterprise apps in existence across a broad spectrum of use cases, something had to give.
It was for this reason that app developers teamed up with EMM vendors to establish a commonality for app configuration, which has since created a trickle-down effect that benefits everyone who touches the apps:
- Developers take advantage of app customizations available standard through mobile operating systems, reducing reliance on app wrapping or SDKs;
- EMM administrators get to take a consistent approach for enterprise app deployments;
- Employees get instant, intuitive access to enterprise apps with no strings attached.
Although its name may imply it’s all about configuration, enterprises are realizing the benefits of adoption in other realms as well. Simplifying the ability to secure enterprise mobile apps is another key benefit. Whether it’s defining security policy to ensure apps with sensitive enterprise data are only available on approved and non-compromised devices—or supporting the use of app tunneling or SSO technology—the benefits are clearer than ever.
It has taken a village, but it has been worth the while. Since it was founded, the Community has exhibited significant growth across each stakeholder category, growing from:
A founding member of the AppConfig Community, IBM MaaS360 with Watson recognizes the value of these standards in facilitating a streamlined approach for developing, securing, and deploying enterprise-ready apps. To see all have been involved in this large undertaking, visit the membership page on AppConfig.org. Better yet, developersand EMM providers can complete an application to join the movement today.