I am trying to get to grips with creating software packages for MAC systems (mainly OSX). I have tried using the built-in packagemaker product and even tried evaluation copies of products such as Installshield Multiplatform ut still no real joy.What I am trying to do is something I am used to doing on a windows-type system. I need to manage a mixed network of Windows and MAC systems, and want to be able to distribute software remotely to each machine. I have the capability to do this across both environments using LANDesk Management Suite, but what I don’t have is a simple to use packager.
From what I can see, most apps in OSX work fine with a simple file copy to the desired location which is what all of the packagers seem to assume. However each of the packagers assume you know ALL of the relevant files and where they should go which is not always the case. I am also at a loss as to how post installation configuration can be done such as suppressing default popup windows or licensing prompts.
Even the built in packager seems to have no mechanisms to suppress feedback so each time I install, the user is prompted to enter data.
In windows I would use something simple such as a snapshot packaging tool that would compare the system configuration pre-install to the state post-install and show me what had changed. Since the MAC installation is pretty much just file copying I was surprised to see that this facility wasn’t around. Using this method I could install an application, customise it and then take a snapshot of it and send it to all of my machines.
Can anybody help me out here?
Thanks in advance.
