I was looking for a build-tool like system to "compile" my thesis: run data analysis scripts, output figures, do some munging on latex source and bibtex references, and finally run the latex compile.

After trying a few and fighting with waf when I needed more flexibility, I found doit to really be a godsend. It really seems to be the best mix of simplicity, flexibility, available features and extendability. Thought some of you might also find it useful. Plus, no arcane make syntax to learn or remember.