is there a way to automatize the setup/configuration of an android device?
There are a few things you can do.

As far as system settings go, you're not going to automate that part without root unless you're rolling your own images from source (I doubt that you're doing that and don't recommend you try). The vast majority of settings are merely entries in a SQLite Database somewhere, so if you can find the required SQLite files, you can manipulate them directly if you are rooted. This can be scripted.

ADB can install the software you need. Use the following command:

adb install path/to/your/Android/executable.apk


Alternatively, to remove software, use:

adb uninstall package.name


(Note that I said package name, and not user-friendly name. The package name is the one that looks like com.company.product)