Can I add applications before I assign the iPAd to a user?

I'm setting up some iPads for an upcoming board meeting ( generic use ) and then afterwards, those iPads will be assigned to individuals. I'd like to get them as "pre-configured" as possible, but not yet sync'd up because they haven't been assigned to their final user.

They're going to be web browsers / PDF readers for the meeting. I want to avoid having to take them all back to factory defaults before giving them to their end-user.

Do I have any options for a use and then assign to a user -type scenario?

If there are PDFs that have details of how to do it - steps and not just marketing-type "this CAN be done", I've found much of that trying to Google how to do this. I'd greatly appreciate a point in the right direction if you can help me out.

Thanks!

keith_in_FL