Upgrading/Reinstalling Windows on a remote pc

I have a few family members who live far away, who have older versions of Windows or installs which are cluttered. The goal is to do a reinstall of Windows 7 (using existing license if possible) and preserve their settings/data, and install latest versions of security/utilities.

So I was thinking of putting together a dvd with a customized Windows 7 installer and all updates, and all the software. But I don't like Windows Easy Transfer, it has failed when I tried to do this. Are there any other utilities or guides on doing the above that I can point people to? Obviously a certain level of technical know how is required, but I want to make it as simple as possible for non-tech people and guide them out over phone as needed. Due to lack of broadband, remote control is not possible.

 

Maybe do a repair installation and then use Ninite.