Digital transformation in education: Apple Business Manager and MDM with Setek Consultants

Setek Consultants helps an educational institution centrally manage more than 3,000 Apple devices, improving security, reducing operational costs, and enhancing the learning experience.

In the fast-paced world of digital education, international schools and universities face the challenge of managing geographically distributed device fleets while maintaining high standards of security and operational efficiency. For a renowned educational institution with campuses in Dubai and several European cities, this challenge became a strategic priority that required specialized expertise in the Apple ecosystem.

The institution, with more than 3,000 iPad, MacBook and other Apple devices used by students, teachers and administrative staff, was struggling with manual device management, data security risks, and inconsistent application and configuration deployment. “We needed a solution that would allow us to manage all our devices centrally, regardless of location.”

A strategy‑driven transformation

Although the challenge was technical, Setek Consultants understood that the solution had to start with a strategic approach. The consultancy carried out a full audit of the existing technology landscape, identifying not only the devices in use, but also workflows, the specific needs of each department, and the applicable data protection regulations.

“At Setek, we do more than implement technology; we design solutions tailored to each client’s operational reality,” explains the Setek team. The project was structured in three phases: assessment and design, technical implementation, and training and ongoing support.

The first phase included workshops with key stakeholders—from IT teams to academic directors—to understand real-world use cases. This consultative approach made it possible to design a Mobile Device Management (MDM) architecture that not only solved technical problems, but also optimized educational processes.

Apple School Manager and MDM: the core of the solution

The project focused on implementing Apple School Manager as the central management platform, integrated with an enterprise‑grade MDM solution. This combination allowed the institution to:

• Automate device provisioning: New iPad and MacBook units are configured automatically when powered on for the first time, with educational apps, security policies, and Wi‑Fi settings preinstalled.

• Enable secure remote management: The IT team can update apps, enforce security policies, and resolve incidents without physical access.

• Segment by user profile: Students, teachers, and administrative staff receive configurations, applications, and permissions tailored to their roles.

• Ensure regulatory compliance: Compliance with data protection regulations is maintained through encryption policies and sensitive data management.​

Setek Consultants managed the entire technical process, from the initial configuration of Apple School Manager to integration with existing identity systems. “Setek’s ability to operate across multiple geographies and understand the regulatory nuances of each market was key,” notes the CTO.​

Measurable results: efficiency, security, and a better experience

Six months after implementation, the results were:

• Faster device deployment across all campuses

• Reduced support tickets and operational costs

• Increased data security and regulatory compliance

• An optimized digital learning experience for students and staff

Drive the digital transformation of your educational institution

Do you want to optimize Apple device management, improve security, and enhance the educational experience at your institution?

Schedule a meeting with Setek Consultants today and discover how Apple School Manager and MDM can transform your educational operations.[Request a free meeting]