After creating a script, you move it to a server or use a mapped drive letter or a UNC (universal naming convention) path. If you place it on a server for users to run, create a share on the server, and then add users to the share with the rights they need. Because all that users need to do is run the script, provide read-only access to the share directory.
Next (on the same server or on a different server), create a directory for each product you want to install. Choose a location for this directory that won't be changed so that you can point to the MSI files in your scripts. Copy the product DVDs to that directory. You may also want to create directories for service packs, extensions, and your own customization tools.
You can use any of the following methods to run an installation script:
- Run the script manually at each individual workstation. To run the installation, paste the script into the Run dialog box or run it from the Windows command prompt.
- Send an email with the UNC path to each user who should run the script. To run the script, the user follows your instructions.
- Email the script to each user with instructions for use.
- Set up the script so that it runs on login.