In Microsoft Provisioning System, provisioning is the implementation of the steps, actions, and operations required to automate Web-based operations, especially the allocation of resources to users. Using provisioning to automate tasks can help reduce your setup time and administrative costs as well as the likelihood of error.
Service provisioning is a common type of provisioning for dynamic Web-based services. It includes all of the steps and actions required to provision the entire service, end-to-end, and deliver it to a user. Service provisioning includes the following specific types of provisioning:
Invokes the functionality of applications and programs, such as directory services and messaging.
Allocates computer hardware and loading software, including setting up the required operating system so it can be used for application provisioning.
Deploys and manages Web-services infrastructures, such as printers, routers, firewalls, switches, and Domain Name System (DNS).
Creates user entries in the directory, billing records, and other service elements. User provisioning also defines group memberships and sets individual and group permissions.
Provisioning requires both a provisioning framework and a method of invoking the functionality of that framework. A robust provisioning system is also customizable and extensible. Microsoft Provisioning System, especially Delegated Administration Console, focuses on providing the business logic and rules that are necessary to implement application provisioning. The components of Microsoft Provisioning System, however, particularly MPF, provide an extensible framework and functionality that you can use as a platform to create almost any provisioning solution.