A device is termed as supervised, when it is prepared for deployment using Apple Configurator. Only the devices running version iOS6 or above and are managed using Apple Configurator with Supervised Mode turned 'on' can be called supervised devices. Supervision supports the advanced management of iOS devices by providing an enhanced level of security.
Some of the benefits of supervising iOS devices are mentioned below:
Supervision is ideal in enterprises for managing corporate devices and commonly shared devices within the organization. Supervised devices are unanimously the preferred choice for use in Healthcare, Retail, Education and related sectors.
Supervising devices using Apple Configurator provides better management capabilities for Desktop Central MDM. Automatic Enrollment of devices using Apple Configurator is a significant feature that reduces the stress of IT Admin by saving much of their valuable time. But Apple Configurator alone cannot produce the required easy management functionality. This is because devices managed solely by Apple Configurator require to be connected to a central Mac OS device for viewing the status of devices and for profile management activities. As this is not feasible, integration with Desktop Central MDM proves to be quite effective as it additionally offers attractive features like App Management, Remote wipe and other remote management activities.
Note:
To know more about Apple Configurator and how to supervise iOS devices using Apple Configurator, refer How to enroll devices using Apple Configurator.