I have seen a few applications with mixed reviews that will allow a user to change the order of startup items. I would simply prefer the "bare metal" method and stick to using the shell or the Open Directory / netinfo editor to do this. I realize that this isn't controlled via launchd
so what is the mechanism and where is the preference location for app startup definition?
I have found OS X's restore app/window process to be less than lackluster and I need to guarantee certain apps start first before others (such as ScreenRecycler as I need applications to open on the other display when they fire up).
Best Answer
So since I've not seen any recommendations I'm going to go ahead and put forth the answer that I've gone forward with so far.
The solution so far for me has been Startupizer. It's not optimal obviously since it is both a paid for solution and it is not a method that is directly available from the OS, but it works and has allowed me to create dependency conditions and various other delays to the order that has been helpful and met my needs.
Hope this helps someone and I certainly hope someone recommends a more OS integral solution soon.