LDAP actually is the solution to unmanaged user accounts on a network.
LDAP is a solution where all user accounts, and their informations altogether with their directories are stored in a centralized server which provides integrity.
Yes, it makes ur life easier in long term and reduce headache, but it's not so easy to implement at early stage. Take it slowly though.
For a start, learn SAMBA file sharing together with LDAP. Go to Redhat (www.redhat.com) and download the documentations for an easy configuration. Should ease ur life a lot.