Self-Service Configuration Management for Dynamic Payload Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional approaches to managing application configurations in large computer networks are inefficient, as they automate only initial installation and require significant time and resources for subsequent changes or updates, necessitating the development of new scripts and deep knowledge of the application.
Innovation Solution
A self-service configuration management system with a central database and web interface that allows users to select configuration changes, automatically generating executables to deploy these changes across multiple machines, eliminating the need for manual scripting and reducing resource waste.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If packaging automation is used for initial installation, then installation automation is improved, but subsequent changes and updates require manual script development which increases time consumption and resource waste
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static packaging scripts to dynamic configuration management. The configuration database stores application state information, and the system dynamically generates deployment scripts based on current configuration differences, enabling automated updates without manual script rewriting.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms by monitoring application configuration states in the database and automatically detecting changes. This feedback loop enables the system to generate updated deployment scripts automatically when configuration changes are detected, eliminating the need for manual script development.
2Adaptability or versatility
If packaging scripts are developed for each change, then configuration updates can be deployed, but deep knowledge of the application is required which increases the skill requirement and resource consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration management system performs self-service by automatically detecting configuration changes from the database and generating deployment scripts without requiring human intervention. The system autonomously manages configuration updates, eliminating the need for installers to have deep application knowledge.
Solution Approach 2:
The configuration database serves as an intermediary between application configurations and deployment scripts. It stores standardized configuration information and translates changes into automated deployment actions, shielding installers from complex application-specific details.
3Productivity
If manual script development is performed for each update, then configuration changes can be implemented, but valuable installer resources are wasted on learning and script creation
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-establishing a configuration database that stores application state information and change tracking mechanisms. When updates are needed, the system retrieves relevant information from the database and automatically generates deployment scripts, eliminating the need for installers to re-learn application configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention may provide systems and methods for self-service configuration management of applications across multiple deployments units, such as computers, servers, and the like. The applications may include software applications, application streams, virtual applications, sandbox applications, and the like. Embodiments of the present invention may create various configuration payloads (e.g., executables) dynamically and in real-time for client machine(s) based on selected configuration changes from a service portal, rather than having each configuration payload being packaged separately and individually by a packager.