multilevel problem, need MUCH guidence

[mdwphoenix]

I have been tasked (blessed, cursed, challenged, pick one, pick all) by my supervisor with the following: To set up a Linux workstation that can do all of the functions our workstations do now, with the hope of freeing ourselves from Windows products, at least as an option. I work for a support center, we provide all levels of support for computing problems for a large (40,000 or so employees) organization. Our network is primarily Novell, email is GroupWise, the workstations are mostly running either Win2K or WinXP. We use Host on Demand to access the mainframe, let's not forget our problem tracking software (legacy Tivoli stuff), the Oracle database, a lot of Windows aps (like Office), some homegrown aps (Coldfusion stuff, mostly). Actually, it's probably not as bad as it sounds. I have installed RedHat 8.0 on a workstation. I am somewhat familiar with Linux in general, as I have played with it a little over the years (that's why I got this homework assignment). I am able to "see" our intranet, and the internet. I can run some of our web-based aps. What I need help with first is installing and configuring software. I download an rpm file for an ap, run it, it says it's installed, but I can't get to it, get it to work, etc. I need to find, install and configure the following: Java, RealPlayer, something that will emulate MS's Network Neighborhood, a Novell client or facsimile, the list goes on. I am certain that if I could get even one to work right, it would teach me a lot.
I just need a little direction to start. I am convinced that this is do-able, and could benefit my employer and my co-workers in the long run. I really want to make this work.
Thanks,
mdwphoenix
p.s.
I have no idea where to post all this, this is my first time using this site.

[ph34r]

Java and RealPlayer are easy - just go to the websites and follow the directions (java is best at www.blackdown.org).

For novell file shares, you need the IPX utilities, etc. and then just mount them. Remember that when you mount them you need to use your full-context name without the leading dot (.user.context.tree, change it to user.context.tree).