... do I just go ahead and instal SL on them, or do I have to get all the user files (all our precious work data) off them first?
I didn't have to ask this question when upgrading from OS8 to 9 all those years ago IIRC, so presumably all the OSX upgrades will happen as seamlessly in this respect? i.e., upgrade the OS and just carry on working? No need to get data off and back on again?
You're right with that assumption: the OS upgrade can be performed without touching your home folder and its data. That said, and as emphasized by Artie, it's always a good idea to have those data backed up so that you won't lose anything if the smelly stuff hits the fan, however unlikely that may be.
