A desktop management system is described that provides an automated process for distributing and suggesting modifications. The system is comprised of a central server and multiple client devices connected through a network. Application layer drafts for a particular modification (such as an installation, update, un-installation, fix, etc.) are generated based on snapshots of client devices before and after the modification is applied. Several application layer drafts are produced for a particular modification. Based on commonalities between the several application layer drafts, an official application layer is produced. When a client device requests a modification, an official application layer for the requested modification is retrieved and merged onto the requesting client device to apply the modification. If a client device on the network lacks an application that is present on similar client devices on the network, the system can suggest the application to the client device.