psexec is a certainly a good tool, but does not handle multiple choices when an installer has no or few command line options (when installer is close to entirely GUI).
I've seen a working kixtart script as the logon script. It is used to load and launch other scripts according to the install sequence which may be as follows:
"logon" script executes at login. Launches "mount" script to mount apps drive. Launches "updater" script that looks for apps.
"updater" script launches "transfer" script that transfers apps to local directory. "updater" then launches "install" script (unique for each app)
"install" script may be any method... batch, AutoIT, psexec.. whichever works, preferably silent and fast
"updater" logs to directory in apps drive
"logon" script logs to directory in apps drive
All of this can be done on a shoestring budget, but there is a very steep learning curve.
I know that updating at login is a great way to slow down login. "updater" could be installed as a Scheduled Task on login and run at a more appropriate time.
By the way, does anyone have any kixtart script samples to help him out?