Software deployment
Deploying software can equip your team with the tools they need, address vulnerabilities, and keep machines operating at peak performance. Whether you’re installing new software, patching your operating system, or updating an existing software application, manual software deployment takes a lot of time and effort. A refined software deployment process that leverages a high-quality solution streamlines the process.
What is software deployment?
Software deployment entails the tasks that make a software system available to users — from software development to testing to monitoring. For enterprises, software deployment most often includes installing, updating, and uninstalling software.
While these steps may seem straightforward, the reality is far more complicated. Many software developers embrace continuous software development, integration, delivery, and deployment, forcing businesses to adapt to changes at a breakneck speed. Keeping up with the latest software updates requires a strong deployment process.
Must-have software deployment features
The best solution for your business can make software installation and updates painless. However, you'll need the right features to get the most bang for your buck.
Script commands
Automate tasks using PowerShell (.ps1), Visual Basic (.vbs), registry file (.reg), or batch file (.bat).
Initiate software deployments when an offline computer comes back online. Never leave a machine behind again!
Receive alerts
Set notifications to see how your deployments went. No more nail-biting tension wondering if your deployments succeeded!
Schedule uninstalls at scale
Remove unused apps to free up hard drive space and improve performance.
Push out popular solutions quickly and silently with over 250 ready-to-deploy applications.
Schedule remote software deployment when it’s convenient for you and your users. You don’t even need to be in the office. Finally take those vacation days!
Document software and hardware details to show your boss who’s — well...boss.
Enjoy next-level support
Get help from experienced sysadmins who understand your deployment struggles and goals.
Force reboots
Reboot devices to complete installations.
Leverage collections
Use prebuilt packages or custom collections to monitor software versions. Then, target machines with outdated software for updates.
Execute remote deployment
No need to get out of your chair! Deploy to on-prem machines with just a few clicks.
Craft custom multi-application deployments
Distribute several applications in one deployment for awe-inspiring efficiency.
What are the benefits of software deployment?
Software deployment improves security and efficiency. Any business that uses computers can’t escape the need for deployment. Thankfully, a software deployment tool can maximize the advantages while limiting potential hurdles. Pairing a convenient software deployment tool with an effective process can reap a wide range of benefits:
Streamlined operations
Enhanced security
Improved patch management
Heightened efficiency and productivity
Expanded user insight
Increased update frequency
Reduced errors
Simplified reporting
PDQ vs. leading competitors
PDQ’s software deployment | Leading competitors | |
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Custom computer groupings |
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Automated deployment |
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Scalable per-admin pricing |
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Extensive ready-to-deploy Package Library |
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Custom script deployment |
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Integrated inventory management & software deployment |
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Easy setup and use |
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Extensive knowledge base |
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Customer service from former sysadmins |
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How do you incorporate software deployment?
Software deployment requires a cyclical process of preparing, testing, and deploying. Preparing helps you understand your environment and put together a plan, and testing allows you confirm the deployment works before pushing it out to your production environment. The deployment itself is actually just one small stage of a much larger process. Here’s a taste of some of the other steps:
Assess your needs
Consider your platform
Maintain a software inventory
Select a deployment method
Determine configuration metrics
Choose the best tool for the job
Establish a deployment pipeline
Monitor deployments
Maintain a software deployment policy
While this may seem like a lot to remember, a fine-tuned process should be like clockwork.
Software deployment best practices
Following software deployment best practices can reduce system downtime, limit errors, and make your IT team’s job a little easier. Each best practice could help optimize your process and improve your efficiency, so consider these tips:
Establish a clear process with a designated checklist
Regularly review your software
Get rid of unnecessary software
Automate processes whenever possible
Stay on top of updates with each software release
Apply patches quickly
Review deployment metrics
Have a rollback plan in place
It’s worth considering any and all best practices, but only your team can determine what’s ideal for your environment.
How do you choose the right software deployment solution?
Selecting the right software deployment tools requires weighing your needs and goals against the solution’s features. Generally, a remote software deployment tool gives your team members more flexibility since they don’t have to physically access each machine in the fleet. However, consider these steps to decide what’s best for your business:
Assess your budget
Determine whether you need a remote installer
Consider the solution’s functionality
Evaluate any included package library
Weigh how the solution fits into your process
Before committing to a solution, schedule a demo to see how it works. Having an expert walk you through the functionality can give you a better idea of how the tool will work for your deployments.
