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What’s New in Device Management: Highlights from WWDC 2024

Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024 unveiled several key updates in device management aimed at enhancing security, efficiency, and flexibility for administrators managing Apple devices. Here’s an in-depth look at the significant changes:

Enhanced Activation Lock Management

Activation Lock, a critical feature for device security, has seen improvements in management. Apple has streamlined processes to ensure that devices remain secure, even when lost or stolen while providing administrators with effective tools to manage these locks. This ensures robust security without compromising user experience.

Advanced Software Update Controls

Managing software updates has become more flexible and controlled. Administrators now have the ability to delay updates, enforce mandatory updates by specific dates, and more. These granular controls help maintain device security and functionality with minimal disruption to users.

Safari Management Capabilities

Apple has introduced enhanced controls for managing Safari. Administrators can now enforce security settings, manage extensions, and configure browsing policies more comprehensively. This is particularly beneficial for schools and businesses needing to maintain a secure and controlled browsing environment.

Apple Business Manager and School Manager Enhancements

Significant enhancements have been made to Apple Business Manager and School Manager. These updates facilitate easier device deployment and management, with improved setup workflows, more powerful management tools, and streamlined app and content distribution processes. These changes aim to reduce the burden on IT departments and enhance efficiency.

Support for visionOS

With the introduction of VisionOS, Apple has extended its management capabilities to this new platform. This integration allows administrators to manage visionOS devices alongside iOS, iPadOS, and macOS devices, ensuring a unified and simplified management experience across all Apple devices.

Managed Apple ID Migrations

A new feature allows for the seamless migration of managed Apple IDs. This is crucial for organizations transitioning between management systems or updating their infrastructure. It simplifies the process, ensuring that user data and settings are preserved during migrations.

Apple Lock Turn Off

Apple has introduced a new feature that allows administrators to turn off Apple Lock remotely. This feature is particularly useful in situations where devices need to be reassigned or repurposed quickly, ensuring that they can be unlocked and set up without delays.

Privacy and Security Enhancements

Continuing its commitment to privacy and security, Apple has introduced enhanced privacy controls within its device management framework. These controls ensure user data protection while providing administrators with the tools necessary to manage devices effectively, helping organizations comply with privacy regulations.

Conclusion

The updates announced at WWDC 2024 underscore Apple’s dedication to providing robust, secure, and user-friendly device management solutions. These enhancements offer greater control, flexibility, and security for administrators across various environments, from educational institutions to large enterprises. As Apple continues to innovate, these tools will undoubtedly become even more essential for effective device management.

For a comprehensive understanding, you can watch the full session on device management from WWDC 2024 here.

Remembering to Be Nice to the Support People During the VMware to Omnissa Transition

Transitioning from one technology platform to another is always challenging, especially for support teams, who bear the brunt of user frustrations, technical issues, and steep learning curves involved. As your organization shifts from VMware Suppor to Omnissa, it’s crucial to remember the human element behind the technology. Your support people are the unsung heroes in this process, and treating them with kindness and respect can make a world of difference.

Here’s why—and how—you should be nice to your support team during this critical transition.

The Human Element in Technological Transitions

Support teams are at the frontline of any technology transition. They manage the technical complexities, address user concerns, and ensure that operations continue smoothly. During a shift from VMware to Omnissa, they will likely face:

  • Increased Workload: Transition periods often mean extra hours and heightened stress as support teams handle simultaneous systems.
  • Learning Curve: Even experienced support personnel need time to adapt to new technologies, understand new protocols, and develop new troubleshooting techniques.
  • User Frustration: Users accustomed to VMware will inevitably encounter difficulties with Omnissa, and support teams will be the first point of contact for their frustrations.

Why Kindness Matters

  1. Morale and Motivation: Support staff who feel appreciated and respected are more likely to stay motivated and perform better under pressure. A kind word can boost their morale and help them tackle challenges more effectively.
  2. Productivity: A positive work environment enhances productivity. When support teams are treated with courtesy, they are more likely to go the extra mile to resolve issues swiftly and efficiently.
  3. Team Cohesion: Encouraging a culture of kindness fosters team cohesion. When everyone supports each other, the transition process becomes smoother and less stressful for all involved.

How to Be Kind to Your Support Tech

  1. Show Appreciation: Simple gestures like saying “thank you” or acknowledging their hard work can go a long way. Consider small tokens of appreciation like team lunches, shout-outs in meetings, or thank-you notes.
  2. Be Patient: Understand that transitioning from VMware to Omnissa is complex. Avoid placing unrealistic demands and give your support team the time they need to solve issues.
  3. Offer Constructive Feedback: If you encounter problems, provide feedback that is constructive rather than critical. Focus on solutions and improvements rather than just pointing out faults.
  4. Communicate Clearly: Clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings. When logging support tickets or describing issues, be as detailed and clear as possible to help the support team address problems more efficiently.
  5. Be Empathetic: Try to put yourself in their shoes. Recognize the pressures they are under and offer empathy and understanding rather than adding to their stress.

Conclusion

Transitioning from VMware to Omnissa is a significant change that involves everyone. By remembering to be nice and showing appreciation for their hard work, you not only foster a positive working environment but also contribute to a smoother and more successful transition. After all, technology might drive the process, but it’s the people behind the technology who make it all possible. Let’s remember to be kind to them.

Exciting News Alert!

This morning, I woke up to an incredible surprise that truly made my day. But before I share that, let me take you back to where it all began.

Back in 1998, while still in high school, I dipped my toes into the world of IT by taking on desktop support roles after school and in between my passions for golf and track. After graduating, I gave college a shot but quickly realized it wasn’t the right fit for me. Despite not being the top student, I found my calling as a Helpdesk technician in November 2001.

It was during my time on the Helpdesk that I was fortunate enough to be surrounded by the right mentors and an amazing team that fostered my growth. I spent countless hours tinkering with old desktops, transforming them into makeshift servers for my personal lab experiments. My parents’ electric bill certainly took a hit during those days! Then, everything changed when I stumbled upon VMware Workstation. It was a game-changer that set me on the path to building a career as a consultant, specializing in installing one of the most transformative products in the industry: ESX/ESXi vSphere.

I vividly remember spending countless nights configuring home labs, endlessly reinstalling until I got everything just right. Eventually, my dedication paid off, and I found myself traveling the world, installing vSphere solutions for clients across the globe. However, as life evolved and I started a family, I decided to pivot back to my roots in end-user support, focusing on Workspace ONE.

And now, to the exciting news! Today, I am incredibly honored to announce that I have been awarded the title of vExpert, one of the most prestigious honors in our industry. This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the support and guidance of everyone who has helped me grow as an engineer, a technician, a manager, and a mentor.

Thank you to each and every one of you who has played a part in my journey. I am immensely grateful for your support and encouragement. Here’s to many more exciting adventures ahead!

#vExpert #ITJourney #Gratitude #CareerGrowth #TechCommunity

vExpert BadgevExpert Badge

Unlocking Seamless Management with DEEM and Workspace ONE

In today’s dynamic work landscape, the integration of cutting-edge technologies isn’t just advantageous; it’s a necessity. As businesses strive for enhanced efficiency, productivity, and security, the collaboration between DEEM and Workspace ONE emerges as a transformative force, reshaping the realm of digital management.

What is DEEM?

Digital Employee Experience Management (DEEM) is a strategic approach that centers on optimizing digital experiences within an organization. It delves into understanding how employees interact with digital tools, aiming to enhance these interactions for improved productivity, engagement, and overall satisfaction.

The Power of Workspace ONE

On the other hand, Workspace ONE, a robust digital workspace platform, stands as a cornerstone in modern IT solutions. It orchestrates seamless management of devices, applications, and data, fostering a cohesive and secure digital environment.

Integration of DEEM with Workspace ONE

The amalgamation of DEEM principles with Workspace ONE signifies a paradigm shift in digital management. This integration facilitates a holistic view of the employee experience, aligning digital capabilities with user needs and expectations.

Key Benefits of DEEM and Workspace ONE Integration:

  1. Enhanced Employee Productivity: The synergy between DEEM and Workspace ONE ensures that the digital environment is optimized for efficiency. By understanding user behavior and preferences, IT teams can tailor digital experiences, leading to increased productivity.
  2. Proactive Issue Resolution: DEEM’s monitoring capabilities, when integrated with Workspace ONE’s management suite, enable proactive identification and resolution of digital hurdles. Predictive analytics and insights empower IT teams to address potential issues before they impact productivity.
  3. Optimized Digital Workspaces: Workspace ONE’s ability to manage diverse digital assets complements DEEM’s focus on user experience. Through seamless device management, application delivery, and data security, organizations can curate personalized and productive digital workspaces.
  4. Agile IT Operations: The combined prowess of DEEM and Workspace ONE streamlines IT operations. Automation, simplified workflows, and centralized management empower IT teams to focus on strategic initiatives while ensuring a seamless digital experience for users.
  5. Data-Driven Decision-Making: DEEM’s data analytics, when integrated into Workspace ONE’s framework, provides valuable insights. These insights enable data-driven decision-making, ensuring continuous improvement in digital experiences and resource allocation.

Embracing the Future of Digital Management

As businesses navigate the complexities of modern digital landscapes, the fusion of DEEM and Workspace ONE emerges as a beacon of innovation. This integration transcends conventional management approaches, propelling organizations toward a future where digital experiences are not just optimized but also deeply aligned with user needs.

Final Thoughts

The synergy between DEEM and Workspace ONE is more than a mere collaboration; it’s a transformative force. It empowers organizations to harness the true potential of digital technologies while placing user experience at the forefront. As businesses strive for digital excellence, this integration stands as a testament to the evolution of digital management strategies.

Resume

JOSEPH KLIMCZAK

Ronkonkoma, New York 11779 || (347) 242-6571 || Joseph.klimczak@gmail.com || https://www.linkedin.com/in/josepheklimczak/

SUMMARY

A highly analytical, solutions-oriented information technology professional with comprehensive expertise in endpoint management, virtualization, cloud, agile project management analysis, installations and configurations, network/systems security, and staff coaching and development. Leads the design, installation, and configuration of network systems to drive company growth and technical innovation. Focuses on identifying, isolating, and resolving technical issues while providing effective leadership in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments. Excels at developing, deploying, and evaluating public and private cloud solutions aimed at improving quality and efficiency. 

TECHNICAL SKILLS

Communication Applications: Office Suite 97 – Office 365, Google Workplaces, Atlassian Suite, Slack, Zoom 

Security Platform  Applications: Trend Deep Security, Crowd Strike, Security Scorecard, Rapid 7, Checkpoint UMT, Unify 

Infrastructure Applications: VMware vSphere From GSX – 8.0, VMware Horizon View 2.5 – 8.0, VMware NSX, VMware Automation Center, VMware Operation Manager, Citrix Xenapp., AWS Workspaces 

Cloud Technologies: AWS, Azure, GCP

End User Management: Workspace One UEM, JAMF MDM, Jump Cloud MDM, Intune Suite, Cisco Meraki MDM, Automox, Smart Deploy, Ivanti Patch Management, Oomnitza, Device 42 

Operating Systems: Windows Server NT. – 2022, Windows Desktop 2000 – Windows 11, Mac OS X – Mac OS 13.x, Linux RedHat – Ubuntu 

Scripting: PowerShell and Bash 

Hardware: IBM xSeries Servers, HP Servers, Dell Power Edge Series Servers, Cisco UCS 

WIFI: Cisco Meraki, Unifi 

Storage and Backup: Netapp, Hitachi, vSan, Rubrik, Cohesity, Datto

Project Management: Agile and Waterfall  

Deployment: Phoenix, Red Blue / A B  

KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS 

  • Developed and implemented complex infrastructures and technical solutions for industry leaders.
  • Streamlined processes resulting in significant cost savings for companies.
  • Directed large-scale development and installation projects. Led technical troubleshooting to identify and resolve problems.
  • Managed and deployed public and private cloud computing solutions.
  • Led and managed multiple teams while running big data and cloud projects.
  • Researched and tested new applications and their respective functionality.
  • The redeveloped endpoint management process for Windows and Mac Desktop.      

EXPERIENCE

WW / WEIGHT WATCHERS, New York, New York || Manager of Virtualization and Endpoint Management, 2011-2023

Directed day-to-day installation, deployment, and support activities, including analyzing VMware deployment and endpoint management. Provided status of environments and configurations, set-up monitoring and capacity reporting, and oversaw all local teams and offshore resources. Supervised project resources for cloud migration and transformation.  

  • Reduced cost to manage end users from $1.5 million to $300,000 by rightsizing and optimizing systems.
  • Conducted and performed cross-functional troubleshooting of complex infrastructure issues. 
  • Led all aspects of private and public cloud deployment models (i.e., VMware, Rackspace, and AWS).
  • Reduced time to onboard and offboard users and devices by 75-80% by automating workflow in Modern CMDB and MDM.
  • Introduced one company-wide Global Device management platform,  reducing 6 regional platforms and bringing down cost and engineering time by 70%.
  • Found and implemented a Global Patch Management Application and created policies and procedures around it, resulting in a 90% success rate post-implementation and a 50% reduction of time spent on audits reporting. 
  • Implemented a modern inventory management system that reduced manual entry and automated it to reduce mistakes and time. 
  • Managed teams responsible for online communication such as  Slack, Zoom, and email, optimizing their workflow and process output by recommending policies, procedures, and cost-saving measurements. 
  • Worked with business partners to find solutions to everyday challenges, such as automating digital signage and implementing music into retail locations, resulting in an increase in user satisfaction scores. 
  • Automated Retail Devices to ensure they were secure and protected, reducing the risk to the business and increasing the success rate for patch installation from 15% to 98% within 30 days of the release date. 
  • Mentored team members on tasks, projects, communication, and other elements of their work, resulting in several team members becoming more productive and going from receiving negative reviews to positive reviews. 
  • Standardized equipment from Servers, Networking Equipment, and Desktops. 
  • Created new policies and governance for corporate access. 
  • Architected deployment and upgrade virtual datacenter to vSphere 7 as well as desktop deployment process and governance.    
  • Decreased time to market for new applications.
  • Coordinated physical, virtual, cloud, and on-site datacenter cost and consolidation studies. 
  • Analyzed web applications for load and scalability, designing and deploying new installations to improve availability. 
  • Ensured all internal systems remained HIPAA, SOX, and PI compliant and maintained and facilitated a level of confidentiality to best meet all federal, state, and local standards.

ELEMENT IT/VICOM COMPUTER SERVICES, New York, New York, 

Senior Virtualization Specialist, Team Lead, And Practice Manager, 2007-2011

Developed trusted computing architecture for critical infrastructure protection. Provided application deployment, support, and problem resolution. Oversaw installation and configuration of internal and external virtualization processes.

  • Delivered elite customer service through responsive interfacing, problem assessment, prompt determination of corrective actions, and advanced technical follow-up. 
  • Designed complex infrastructure virtualization solutions and upgrades using VMware View, coordinating backup and disaster recovery strategies. 
  • Supervised installation and configuration of Microsoft and Citrix applications and New Virtual Desktop solutions. 
  • Developed cost-saving applications and methods for help desk solutions, effectively providing key recommendations on policy and procedures to C-level management. 
  • Designed architecture for and configured SharePoint server for the company’s first intranet. 
  • Designed Solutions that sales teams could package for clients and sell for quick implantations. 
  • Created Policies for SOW and Documentation review. 
  • Manages teams across different deployments and different projects at the same time. 

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE

AMALGAMATED BANK, New York, New York, Senior System Administrator / Assistant Vice President, IT Department, 2007.

Designed and deployed VDI and virtual infrastructure for branch and back office as well as implemented 1st helpdesk ITSM Ticketing system. Oversaw technical deployments, testing, and troubleshooting configurations for Servers and desktops—the led conversation of physical to virtual consolidation of Back office and branches.

SOVEREIGN BANKCORP / INDEPENDENCE COMMUNITY BANK, Melville, New York, System Administrator, Applications Support, and Team Lead, IT Department, 2000-2007.

  • Started as Service Desk Tech and moved up to a Helpdesk manager and then to a system administrator during my Seven years at ICB. I was responsible for a wide range of operational support functions.
  •  
  • Conducted release testing for all new applications for the bank, with 650 branches and 12,000-plus employees.
  • Worked on and Developed cost-saving projects, including cost-benefit recommending the purchase of printers (in lieu of leasing), resulting in annual savings of around $200,000.
  •  
  • Converted network file shares from Novell to Windows, reducing complexity. Initiated changes to Login Scripting for application and policy deployment using Kixstart. Was Responsible for installing and managing VMWARE, Checkpoint, and McAfee EPO.  
  •  
  • Tested hardware and software acquisitions and Internet browser compatibility with online banking, ensuring functionality. Installed, troubleshot, and maintained Exchange 2003 and 2000 Servers. Installed Windows 2000 and 2003 upgrades, including remote administration, as well as system-wide wireless solutions. Provided comprehensive, on-site email and telephone support and training to end-users on both hardware and software issues. Managed Helpdesk teams on and off-site locations

CERTIFICATIONS

VMware Certified Professional

VMware Certified Desktop Associate

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT 

VMware View Horizon Vsphere install and Advance Troubleshooting 

Microsoft Windows Server 2000 & 2003 Microsoft Exchange 2007

The Landmark Forum – Personal Development Courses

The Journey of ME

Introduction

In a world where innovation and dedication are the cornerstones of success, I Try to be an exemplary individual who has consistently demonstrated exceptional talents and a relentless pursuit of excellence. In this blog post, we will delve into the life and achievements of shedding light on his remarkable journey and contributions to various fields.

Early Life and Education

Born with a curious and inquisitive mind, he excelled academically from a young age. His insatiable thirst for knowledge led him to pursue higher education, where he studied extensively in fields that would later become the bedrock of his achievements.

Entrepreneurship and Business Ventures

One of the defining aspects of my journey is his entrepreneurial spirit. Throughout his career, he has embarked on various business ventures, each marked by innovation and success. His ability to identify opportunities and turn them into thriving businesses has earned him recognition in the entrepreneurial community.

Philanthropy and Social Responsibility

My journey isn’t solely defined by business acumen; it reflects a deep commitment to giving back to society. He has been actively involved in philanthropic endeavors, supporting causes that range from education and healthcare to environmental conservation. His philanthropic efforts have made a meaningful impact on the lives of countless individuals and communities.

Leadership and Mentorship

My journey is a testament to his leadership abilities. Throughout his career, he has assumed leadership roles in various organizations, steering them towards growth and success. His leadership style, characterized by a strong sense of vision and the ability to inspire and motivate others, has earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and peers.

Additionally, My commitment to mentorship has played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of many aspiring individuals. My dedicated time and effort to mentor and guide young talents, sharing his knowledge and experience to help them achieve their own successes.

Innovation and Technology

In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, it innovation has been at the forefront. He has consistently embraced emerging technologies and explored their potential applications across various industries. His forward-thinking approach has paved the way for groundbreaking developments and advancements in the fields he’s been involved in.

Legacy and Future Endeavors

As my journey continues, his excellence, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy legacy inspire many. His unwavering commitment to positively impacting society and his ability to adapt to changing times ensure that his future endeavors will be as remarkable as his past achievements.

Conclusion

A testament to the power of passion, dedication, and innovation. His life story inspires individuals from all walks of life, reminding us that with hard work and a relentless pursuit of excellence, we can make a significant and lasting impact on the world around us. We are reminded of the endless possibilities that await those who dare to dream and work tirelessly to turn those dreams into reality.