4 Reasons to Use Zero Touch Deployment to Supply Devices to Remote Workers

Remote work has become an integral part of the modern workforce. According to Deel’s 2023 State of Global Hiring Report, demand for distributed hiring is still on the rise, even with increased return-to-office policies. Companies are now hiring remotely for a broader range of roles, including sales and content, in addition to traditional technical positions.

With this shift, companies face the challenge of efficiently supplying devices to employees scattered across various locations. Providing each remote worker with the necessary tools is important for maintaining productivity and security.

To meet these needs, Deel IT provides a complete solution for managing the employee lifecycle and IT needs across more than 130 countries. From handling local compliance to shipping, Deel supports procurement teams as they expand into new regions.

What is zero touch deployment?

Zero touch deployment is a method of provisioning and configuring devices remotely without the need for manual setup by IT personnel. It enables organizations to deliver new devices—like laptops, tablets, or smartphones—directly to employees with all the necessary configurations, applications, and security policies pre-installed. When the employee turns on the device for the first time and connects to the internet, the device automatically enrolls in the company's management system and completes the setup process on its own.

This approach leverages cloud-based services and device management platforms to automate the enrollment and configuration process. Zero touch deployment ensures that every device complies with company standards right out of the box, eliminating the need for IT teams to physically handle each device.

Here are four reasons why HR teams and IT managers should consider adopting zero touch deployment for their remote workforce.

1. Simplified device enrollment

Managing device enrollment for a distributed team can be complex. Zero touch deployment makes this task easier by automating the setup of devices, especially Apple devices, through tools like Apple Business Manager and the Device Enrollment Program (DEP). This integration allows organizations to:

• Automate device enrollment: Devices are pre-configured before reaching the employee, eliminating manual setup and ensuring consistency across all devices.
• Direct shipping: Devices can be sent straight from the manufacturer or supplier to the employee's location, reducing delays.
• Easy setup: When the employee turns on the device, the necessary configurations, applications, and security settings are automatically installed over the internet.
• Scalability: Manage a large number of devices without increasing the workload on IT staff. This approach saves time and reduces the potential for errors that can occur with manual setups. IT teams no longer need to handle each device physically, allowing them to focus on other important tasks.

See also: How to Simplify Global IT Operations Throughout the Employee Lifecycle

2. Improved user experience

First impressions are important, especially when onboarding new remote employees. Zero touch deployment provides devices that are ready to use immediately, offering several benefits:

• Personalized configuration: Devices can be tailored to each user's role and needs, with the appropriate applications and access rights.
• Immediate productivity: Employees can start working right away without waiting for IT support or dealing with complex setup procedures.
• Reduced frustration: Eliminates the hassle of complicated setups, technical issues, and lengthy installations, leading to higher employee satisfaction.
• Professional onboarding: Shows the company's commitment to supporting its employees, which can boost morale and engagement.

By focusing on the user experience, companies can improve employee engagement and retention. A smooth onboarding process reflects well on the company's dedication to supporting its remote workforce and can set the tone for a positive working relationship.

See also: Enhance Employee Experience with a Unified HR Tech Stack

3. Better device management and security

Remotely managing devices presents unique challenges, particularly in terms of security and compliance. Zero touch deployment, combined with Deel’s robust device management solutions, allows organizations to:

• Centralized control: Manage all devices from a single platform, simplifying oversight and maintenance.
• Apply security policies: Consistently implement company-wide security settings, including encryption and access controls, to meet compliance standards like SOC2 and ISO 27001.
• Automate updates: Remotely push updates and patches, reducing vulnerabilities and ensuring device security.
• Remote actions: Lock or wipe devices in case of loss or theft, protecting sensitive data. All Deel devices use Jamf, which allows us to enroll devices and wipe data from lost or stolen equipment.
• Compliance management: Enforce industry-specific and regional data protection laws globally, maintaining high security regardless of location.

This level of control is important for protecting sensitive company data and maintaining compliance with local and global regulations. IT managers can be confident that all devices meet the organization's security standards, regardless of where they are located.

See also: How to Procure and Manage Equipment for Independent Contractors with Deel IT

4. Increased efficiency and cost savings

By automating the deployment process, companies can significantly reduce the workload on HR and IT departments. Zero touch deployment offers several efficiency gains:

• Reduced manual labor: Minimizes hands-on support required from IT staff, freeing them up to focus on other important tasks.
• Faster onboarding: Speeds up the time it takes for new employees to become productive, which can be critical in fast-paced business environments.
• Lower shipping costs: Direct shipping to employees cuts down on intermediary steps, reducing shipping and handling expenses.
• Environmental benefits: Fewer shipments and reduced packaging contribute to sustainability efforts, aligning with corporate social responsibility goals.
• Scalable solutions: As the company grows, zero touch deployment can easily accommodate an increasing number of devices without a proportional increase in costs or resource demands.

These efficiencies simplify operations and lead to cost savings. Resources can be reallocated to other critical areas of the business, improving overall productivity. In the long run, investing in zero touch deployment can yield significant returns by reducing operational costs and enhancing employee performance.

Transform your device deployment with Deel IT

Supplying devices to remote workers doesn't have to be a complicated process. Deel IT leverages zero touch deployment to automate hardware provisioning, ensuring your team receives pre-configured devices that are ready to use from day one.

With Deel IT, you can:

• Automate device setup and shipping, reducing delays and manual effort.
• Manage devices centrally, applying consistent security policies and updates.
• Enhance the employee experience by providing ready-to-use devices that boost immediate productivity.
• Scale efficiently as your remote workforce grows globally.

Ready to simplify device management and support your remote employees effectively?

Book a demo today to see how Deel IT can help you implement zero touch deployment, increase efficiency, and keep your team productive and secure—no matter where they are.