Guide to manage XR Headsets for business

In the fast-evolving world, the integration of advanced technologies is not just a trend but a necessity. With the expansion of businesses, the adoption of newer technology businesses need a centralized platform to manage, secure, and optimize their devices. 

Mobile Device Management (MDM) is a popular and widely adopted choice of businesses to simplify their tech management, from installing applications to configuring devices for new team members, ensuring a streamlined workflow.

With the growing popularity of Extended Reality (XR) technologies, such as VR headsets, for enhancing design processes and client interactions, the role of MDM becomes even more pivotal. Adding an additional layer of security and optimizing operational efficiency offers a scalable way to manage devices than having to manually manage each XR device.

This guide will provide you with insights that a business needs to know to make informed decisions on How to manage their XR devices across organizations.

What are the pain points in managing XR headsets?

There are several pain points that businesses go through while managing XR headsets.

1. Single Account Limitations: A common issue is the difficulty in managing multiple VR headsets with a single Meta account. This setup is not only inefficient but also raises concerns, especially when personal Facebook logins are used for professional purposes. It creates a mix-up of personal and professional data, posing privacy and security risks.

1. Navigational Hurdles: Clients and users often struggle with the Oculus consumer interface. The process of finding specific business applications in the Oculus Store can be confusing and time-consuming, leading to a less-than-optimal user experience. This issue becomes more pronounced when VR is used for client presentations or collaborative projects.
   

2. Management Overload: For organizations with a substantial number of headsets or those operating across multiple locations, managing these devices becomes a logistical challenge. Questions about ownership, location, and the operational status of each headset can consume a significant amount of managerial time and effort, detracting from the primary goal of seamless technology utilization.
   

3. Need for Assistance from Software Providers for Device Resets: A recurring challenge in managing XR devices is the frequent necessity to contact software providers for installing applications or resetting devices which can be time-consuming leading to workflow interruptions and project delays. This issue arises when devices encounter glitches, software malfunctions, or require resets to default settings for new users or projects.
   

What are the key benefits of deploying MDM?

As your business in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) sector evolves, the management of technology, particularly XR devices, becomes increasingly crucial. Let's dive into some key benefits of deploying a Mobile Device Management (MDM) system in a business.

1. Enhanced Security: With the growing usage of XR devices, the foremost benefits of an MDM system is its ability to safeguard sensitive information and adherence of XR devices to industry standards and regulations, maintaining your business's integrity and avoiding legal complications.
   

2. Streamlined Management: Centralize control of all XR devices, applications, and settings through MDM for more efficient, time-saving management and resource optimization, freeing up your team for critical project tasks.
   

3. Scalability: As your business expands, so does your inventory of XR devices, efficiently managing an increasing number of XR devices without adding complexity and offer the flexibility to adapt to changing business and technology needs.
   

4. Improved User Experience: MDM allows customization of the XR experience for different projects or user preferences, enhancing effectiveness and engagement, leading to increased productivity, user satisfaction, and better project outcomes.

Real-World examples

Client’s Problem-Use Case 1: University Course Headset Management

A university offering a Construction Management course faced challenges in managing Meta Quest headsets for 30 students. Each semester, headsets required configuration and management by the course instructor, and a factory reset at the end of the term, a process that was extremely time-consuming.

Quick Fix: Initially, the instructor manually configured each headset for student use and performed factory resets at the end of each semester. While this ensured each student had the necessary software, it was not an efficient process.

Long-Term Solution: The university was advised to adopt an MDM solution like Quest for Business or ManageXR. These platforms allow centralized management of all headsets, enabling the instructor to deploy software to all devices simultaneously and manage them efficiently throughout the semester. This solution significantly reduces the time and effort required for headset management each term.

Client’s Problem-Use Case 2: Standardizing Client Presentations Across Global Offices

A design firm with offices in New York, London, and Dubai struggled to standardize client presentations due to varying headset setups in each location. Ensuring each office's headsets were presentation-ready with the necessary software was a logistical challenge.

Quick Fix: The firm initially managed headsets locally at each office, ensuring they were prepared for presentations as needed. However, this approach lacked consistency and efficiency, especially for high-profile client experiences.

Long-Term Solution: To streamline their VR workflow and standardize presentations regardless of location, the firm implemented an MDM solution like ArborXR. This allowed them to manage all headsets from a single platform, customize the home screen for a consistent VR experience, and ensure that the necessary software was installed and ready for use in each office. This solution not only saved time but also enhanced the quality and consistency of client presentations across their global offices.

Client’s Problem- Use case 3: Resolving Account Conflicts in XR Device Management

Use of the same Meta Quest account across multiple headsets. This practice was not only causing operational issues but also violated Meta's policies.

Quick Fix: The Sentio VR team advised changing the administrator account for one of the headsets. However, this solution required a factory reset of the headset, which could be time-consuming and might lead to data loss. Learn more

Long-Term Solution: To avoid such issues in the future, the team recommended using a VR app management platform like Quest for Business, ManageXR, or ArborXR. These platforms allow for separate accounts for each device, ensuring compliance with Meta's policies and smoother operation. 

Which MDM to use according to your business needs?

When it comes to choosing the right Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution for your XR needs in the AEC industry, three major players stand out: ManageXR, ArborXR, and Meta Quest for Business. Let's break down each of these platforms in simple terms to help you make an informed decision.

Features	ManageXR	ArborXR	Meta Quest for Business
Primary Focus	Content distribution and security	User-friendly device management	Comprehensive enterprise management
Key Features	Kiosk mode for focused use Advanced security controls Remote content management	Customizable user experience Remote view and kiosk mode Device lockdown feature	User, device, and app management Security features like 2FA and SSO security
Ideal For	Teams needing secure, remote management of XR content	Teams new to XR or needing an easy management system	Enterprises using Meta Quest headsets extensively
Pricing	Approximately $7 to $10 per seat	Ranges from $7 to $14 per seat, based on team size	Starts at $15 per device per month with add-ons
Scalability	Good for small to medium-sized teams	Suitable for a range of team sizes	Best for larger teams or enterprises

Sentio VR's Recommendation

The right choice for your business depends on multiple factors like types of headsets, budgets and locations involved. For example, if you are using only Meta Quest headsets in locations where the Quest for Business platform is available, it makes sense to adopt the Meta Quest for Business MDM solution to keep the experience seamless. 

In case your team uses VR headsets that are from multiple hardware manufacturers like HTC or others, you might need to consider ManageXR or ArborXR as they are compatible with multiple headsets. 

Finally, if you are budget-conscious, the price per headset for ManageXR or ArborXR offers very reasonable costs for their platform with excellent customer service.