Downloading GNU/Linux usually involves a process of downloading the entire CD image (called iso). This sometimes can be a time consuming process if you only need to install GNU/Linux with a few desired applications, as ISO provided by GNU/Linux distro is bundled with lots of applications that you wouldn’t ever use. It would be nice to have an ISO that would be tailor-made to your needs with all unessary applications removed to lighten the download.
Furthermore, the installation process for most GNU/Linux distribution is too generic, where a user has to attend the installation by manually answering questions such as Languange preference, Timezone, Keyboard Layout, Mouse, etc. This can be a bit of an annoyance if the user would wish install the GNU/Linux on multiple computers, usually those settings will remain the same for the user (how many are you have changed those preference?).
Instalinux (http://www.instalinux.com/ ) has taken a new approach to provide customized installation CD to the power users. Based on the LinuxCOE project by Hewlett Packard, Instalinux solves the problem of “generic ISO image” by providing a way to the user to create a custom installation disc by his/her own preference.
Users can choose from Fedora, SuSE, Debian and Ubuntu, select their system parameters, select software packages and pick a public mirror to install from, and then download the ISO image that is generated.
All of these are obtainable by the means of Kickstart, AutoYAST, or the Debian Preseed autoinstallers through Instalinux interface.