I think the way I like to see it is a common data access and back-end processor and then exposing things via APIs so that the front ends can be written in native/web/smoke signals, whatever you want allowing you to take advantage of the target devices best capabilities.

If you're out San Antonio way, I can give you a tour of Rackspace's Headquarters. Can't claim to be as cool as pixar, but got quite a few people who'd probably want to meet you.

More like "Jeff's Nuts" roasting on an open fire.

Holding it with copper-mesh lined gloves?

It usually varies every place I've been between the quality/age of the hardware and the competency of the users. Additionally it depends on how automated the system is, and whether there's a dedicated support staff. Small places I've been I've find you can do about 45-75 comfortably... It was a bit stretched when it reached 100:1

Just my $0.02

I've found the best thing is to treat them like a corporation. Make sure their accounts are only user level, and either hold on to the Administrator password or make sure they know the real reason to use it. Done that with a few family friends I do work for and the amount of trouble i've had has dropped drastically.

I need to check my comments, but I've actually done the +5 Windows better than Linux. I remember it was a thread about domain type management of systems.