What to look for in secure collaboration tools

28.10.2011

Other things to consider:

* Mobile apps should have an intuitive interface and be available for common mobile platforms, such as , iOS and BlackBerry. When security solutions are easy-to-use, employees use them, rather than looking for workarounds that might put confidential data at risk.

* When considering your options, do not overlook file sizes. If the solution you select does not accommodate the sharing of large files, you risk users turning to non-secure, unmanaged .

* -based security, as compared to client-based security, will help you avoid the daunting task of having to configure an ever-changing collection of hundreds or even thousands of mobile devices. Server-based security also enables administrators to enforce changes to security policies immediately. For example, to disable mobile access for an ex-employee, the person's mobile phone is not required. With server-based security, IT can simply turn off access through an administrative dashboard.

* Employees need to collaborate not only with colleagues but also with external users, such as business consultants, ad agencies, industrial design firms, legal counsel, and other types of business partners. Therefore it is important the solution you select supports cross-boundary collaboration, so mobile users can work with all members of a team, including external users.