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After trying to figure out how to customize node input forms for Drupal for a while by using form_alter, I eventually stumbled across the formfilter module.

The formfilter module appears to be perfect for what I needed. Its a simplified point and click interface visible to admins only, which allows virtually any form field to be hidden.

Obviously when creating a website aimed at a less techy user audience, we're wanting to keep it simple. First impressions of the formfilter module for this seem to be pretty good.