Branded Mobile Distribution Preparation

The effective and efficient distribution of the Igloo Mobile Branded Edition application is key to the success of the project and acceptance by users.

This article provides an overview of the distribution option and the steps to set up the required artifacts Igloo requires to create branded mobile builds.

Sections in this article: 

If you have any questions about the required information or the steps to obtain them, don't hesitate to contact your Igloo Project Manager for assistance.

Distribution options

There are 2 recommended methods that can be used to distribute your branded mobile app to members of your digital workplace.  See the chart below to better understand which method is right for your organization.

MDM (Mobile Device Management) App Store (Private /Unlisted Distribution)

Mobile Device Management (MDM) is a set of technologies, processes, and policies used to manage and secure mobile devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops, within an organization. MDM solutions enable IT administrators to remotely manage and control mobile devices, enforce security measures, and streamline device deployment and maintenance. Here are some key aspects of Mobile Device Management:

  • Device Configuration and Enrollment: MDM allows administrators to configure device settings and enroll devices into the management system. This process may involve installing a management profile or app on the device to establish a secure connection between the device and the management server.
  • Policy Enforcement: MDM enables administrators to enforce policies on managed devices to ensure compliance with security standards and organizational requirements. This can include password policies, encryption settings, app restrictions, network access controls, and more.
  • App Distribution and Management: MDM solutions facilitate the distribution and management of apps on managed devices. Administrators can deploy apps directly to devices, control app updates, and remove or block unauthorized apps.
  • Remote Device Management: MDM provides remote management capabilities, allowing administrators to troubleshoot, monitor, and update devices without physical access. This includes tasks like remote lock, data wipe, software updates, and remote support.
  • Security and Compliance: MDM focuses on enhancing device security and maintaining compliance with data protection regulations. It enables features such as remote data wipes, encryption enforcement, device tracking, and the ability to respond quickly to security threats.
  • Inventory and Reporting: MDM solutions often offer inventory management and reporting features. This allows administrators to track device information, monitor usage, generate reports on device status, and ensure license compliance.

Igloo is not responsible for providing instructions for app deployment through MDM. Please contact your MDM provider for guidance and support.

Private or unlisted app distribution provides a way to share apps with a specific audience while maintaining control, security, and flexibility outside the traditional public app store model. Here are some key aspects of private or unlisted app distribution:

  • Limited Audience: Private app distribution targets a specific group of users, such as employees within an organization, beta testers, or selected individuals. It allows you to control who can access and install the app.
  • Custom Distribution Channels: With private distribution, you have the flexibility to choose your own distribution channels outside of public app stores. This can include methods like email, secure file sharing, QR codes, or using a Mobile Device Management (MDM) system.
  • Enhanced Security: Private distribution provides an added layer of security since the app isn't publicly accessible. This can be beneficial when dealing with sensitive or confidential information within an organization or during testing phases where you want to limit exposure.
  • Bypassing App Store Guidelines: Private distribution allows you to distribute apps that may not comply with the strict guidelines of public app stores. This is particularly useful for apps that serve internal purposes, experimental projects, or niche applications that don't fit within the typical app store requirements.
  • Control and Flexibility: Private distribution gives you greater control over the app's availability, updates, and distribution channels. You can manage who has access to the app, control version releases, and easily revoke access if needed.

See these additional resources for more information:

In some cases, you might even combine both approaches. For example, you can use MDM to distribute internal apps within your organization while using App Store distribution for public-facing apps. Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific needs regarding control, target audience, security, and distribution requirements.

What we need from you

Regardless of the distribution method, Igloo requires third-party vendor support to allow the application to run on a smartphone. The requirements include:

  • Provisioning information to use in the build process from Apple and Google: 
  • Set up accounts for internal testing and validation 

Provide Provisioning information for Apple and Google

To prepare the app, the Igloo team requires you to provide provisioning information. Follow the steps in: 

Once this process has been completed, double-check the checklists to ensure you have all the right information and share that information with the Igloo team. 

Set up accounts for internal testing and validation

You must set up two user accounts in your digital workplace so that Igloo can test and support Igloo Mobile Branded Edition. These accounts should have the following attributes:

  • Account 1
    • First name: Test
    • Last name: IglooMobil1
    • Email: prem_mobile_1@igloosoftware.com
  • Account 2
    • First name: Test
    • Last name: IglooMobil2
    • Email: prem_mobile_2@igloosoftware.com