XCLN: The ODK IExpress Deployment Readme Text (222017)

SUMMARY

What is the ODK IExpress Deployment Kit?

The Outlook Deploymnent Kit (ODK) IExpress Deployment Kit (IDK) method is a modular and extensible way of using the Internet Express (IExpress) program to generate user-specific profiles as well as rollout hotfixes or patches by bundling all files together into one custom package. This custom package can be executed at the end of the ODK setup, or run as a stand-alone executable.

Why use the IDK?

Administrators using the Outlook Deployment Kit need to dynamically generate profiles and update Outlook with the various patches and hotfixes available. By using the IDK method and the IExpress program included with the ODK, administrators can accomplish both of these tasks during installation in one step.

How does the IDK work?

Administrators accomplish multiple tasks in one step by bundling program files and patches into one self-extracting executable and then specifying the launch order of the programs by using a custom .inf file. The programs to run are listed in the .inf file along with any command-line switches. This way applications can run in quiet mode or particular options can be specified. A sample .inf is supplied with the IDK. This gives administrators more control over deployment; they are not tied to using utilities running in the background where environment parameters can't be easily changed. They can now generate custom profiles and deploy several patches at one time.

Is this another utility?

No. The IDK is not a program but a method to aid in deployment. It uses existing utilities, such as Profgen and Newprof for profile generation. It also works with patches, such as the Outlook Security Patch, and others. With this method there is no code to update. In fact, the only thing that needs to be updated is the various ways in which you can use this method.

Can I only generate profiles?

No. With this method you can apply QFE hotfixes, patches available with a Service Pack, patches downloaded from the Web, replace .dll files, or install full applications.

Can I install a program that contains its own Setup?

Yes. Use of a batch file which would require extensive modification to allow for a complex setup routine is not necessary. The IDK can use a command-line switch placed at the end of the Setup.exe line to wait until the running Setup completes before continuing. This correct syntax would be: setup.exe -SMS.

Does it only work with Outlook and the ODK?

No. The IDK methodology can be used to generate a self-extracting stand-alone executable, which can accomplish the above tasks for almost any application. Your update could then be emailed to users, deployed through Systems Management Server, used in logon scripts, and so on.

What is included with the IDK?

The IExpress Deployment Kit contains all the files and Knowledge Base articles necessary to guide you through:

Steps for the creation of an IExpress package

Steps and a sample .inf file to cleanly generate profiles with user specific settings

Steps and filenames for applying the patches available for Outlook

Steps on how to correctly extract and run other Setup programs

Instructions for adding your package to the ODK for easy deployment

A fix for the "Out of Memory or System Resources" error when creating new journal items that can sometimes happen after installing Outlook with the ODK

Profile Designer (Designer.exe)