Implementing a New PC Setup Policy -OR- How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Give Up Symantec Ghost

摘要

In early 2010 SUNY Geneseo's User Services group updated our methods of deploying new computers and configurations to our customers. We had been utilizing the same processes for years and become comfortable with the same techniques. With the implementation of Windows Vista, Windows 7 and the latest versions of Mac OS it became apparent that the nature of those procedures was changing. We moved from a model of maintaining multiple ghost images for different models of windows computers to having a centralized deployment method utilizing Microsoft's lite-touch deployment with network booting. We also moved toward a centralized Mac image utilizing Apple's System Image Utility and the adoption of networked user accounts on Apple computers. All the steps for which were thoroughly documented in our internal documentation wiki. Our presentation will focus on the catalysts for, the implementation of, and the ultimate evaluation of the results of this project. We will examine the social and technological challenges that we encountered on the way. We will touch on the project team's goals and accomplishments specifically in areas of cost savings, time savings and space savings on our storage network. Also, we will discuss the "human" dimension of this project, the impact of having a team of peers drive the policies that affect their everyday workflows and the benefits of being able to direct positive changes for your own position. The presentation details how the project went from formation to completions in 2010 and provides a model for others to follow.