"I Can Script That!"

Whenever I'm discussing the various configuration features of Desktop Authority, our Desktop Management solution for Windows-based desktops and laptops, I often am stopped by the "scripting guy" who states that he can do it all with scripting. While 100% true (As there are so many powerful scripting languages today out there - MS' PowerShell, WinBatch, KiXtart, and many, many more) - it CAN be done - the question is SHOULD it be done that way?

Let me put it a different way for those who are keen on scripting by asking a question - how did you get to work today? Most would say "I drove" to which I ask "Why didn't you walk?" Think about it:

• It is less expensive (no need to buy a car in the first place)
  
• There is no cost for maintenance, gas or insurance
  
• You have far more options on how to get to where you're going (through people's yards, jump over fences, etc.)
  
• You don't need to find a good parking spot when you arrive

The obvious answer is "it is too slow to walk" but that's not the root of the reason - it is really about productivity. You are far more productive at work and home if you spent only 30 mins driving each way instead of a good 8-10 hours walking to and from work.

Walking simply isn't a productive enough means of travel in this case.

The same stands true for scripting as your desktop management solution - while you CAN script just about anything a desktop management solution can conjur up, your time is far more precious and can be used on more strategic initiatives than mapping a drive letter for the Accounting Department.

Take a simple drive mapping, but only have it apply to users in the Accounting group, when they log on from a Windows XP machine, from the 10.1.1.0 subnet, and only when they have a specific app installed (assume as defined by presence of the .exe). How long would it take you to script that, sandbox it, test it and put it out into production? I'm going to guess at least (including the testing part) 30 minutes to a few hours (depending on your skill set). With a solution like Desktop Authority, it would be done in the time it took you to answer my question!

So we're back to the driving vs. walking discussion - yes, you CAN script anything, but purchasing and utilizing a desktop management solution does make sense if you are looking for a far more productive means to reach your goal.

And to boot, keep in mind you also drive because it is air conditioned, has music, a place to hold your drink, etc. - basically there are perks in using a car vs. walking. The same is true with Desktop Authority - you are not only purchasing a replacement solution for scripting, you are getting a full Desktop Management solution, complete with software deployment, inventory, reporting, remote management/control, patching, anti-spyware, USB/Port lockdown, role based administration and more.

Walk or drive... it's your choice.