OK I guess I get to chime in here.  I think that one of the best ways to handle this and Zinga you can still use game maker buit you are all missing one key compnent.  the network.  you are all still thinking that your all in a different location.  What yuou can utilize today is virtualization.  Terminal Services/ Citrix has been providing local access to systems programs and files across diverce networks sense the 80's.  Why not use it.  If someone has a server that has a internet connection that can remain up.  I have access to well REAL valid licensing for use.  It will only be 5 - 10 user limit but that should be more than enough.  With Citrix in place each person logging in will have access to a local network drive pluss the applications and seeing as wee are not doing engineering work you should not have a hard time with this.  I am sure that wee have some people here that are tallented enough to get it installed. This way all tools programs are installed in one location and when someone logs in to get their "desktop" everything will be there along with the local saved files.  

ZB what are your thoughts.