Question:

“As an expert, could you advise on the most efficient method to streamline and expedite the provisioning process for new laptops, particularly for software installations, in the absence of Intune, MDM, or any sophisticated provisioning or package deployment software? Currently, I employ a silent installation batch script. I’m contemplating a logon script that, upon its initial execution, creates a ‘I have run’ text file in a specified directory to prevent re-execution. Is there a way to automate this process without resorting to third-party tools?”

Answer:

In the realm of IT management, provisioning new laptops efficiently is crucial for maintaining productivity and minimizing downtime. When traditional management tools like Intune or MDM are not available, IT professionals must rely on ingenuity and the native capabilities of their operating systems.

Your current approach using a silent installation batch script is a solid foundation. Batch scripts are powerful because they can execute a series of commands automatically. To enhance this process, consider the following strategies:

1.

Windows PowerShell

: Transition from batch scripting to PowerShell scripting. PowerShell offers more robust and flexible scripting capabilities, which can be particularly useful for complex installation sequences.

2.

Group Policy

: Utilize Group Policy Objects (GPOs) for script deployment. GPOs can be configured to run scripts at startup, shutdown, logon, or logoff, providing control over when scripts are executed.

3.

Task Scheduler

: Leverage the Windows Task Scheduler to run scripts at specific times or events. This can be especially useful for installations that need to occur outside of regular business hours.

Logon Script with Execution Flag

The idea of a logon script that creates a “I have run” flag is a step in the right direction. To refine this:

• Place the script in a common network location where all users have read access.
• Use the script to check for the existence of the “I have run” file in the user’s profile directory.
• If the file does not exist, execute the setup script and create the file upon completion.
• If the file exists, the script exits without performing the installation again.

Considerations for Automation

–

Permissions

: Ensure that the user accounts have the necessary permissions to execute the scripts and install software.

–

Testing

: Rigorously test scripts in a controlled environment before deployment to avoid potential disruptions.

–

Logging

: Implement logging within your scripts to track installations and errors. This can be invaluable for troubleshooting.

Conclusion

While the absence of advanced tools presents challenges, it also opens opportunities for creative solutions. By utilizing native scripting capabilities and system tools, you can create an automated provisioning system that is both efficient and cost-effective. Remember, the key to successful automation is thorough planning, testing, and documentation. With these practices in place, you can streamline your laptop provisioning process and ensure a smooth deployment of software installations.