Windows Vista isn’t the only major OS upgrade on the horizon. Hewlett-Packard this fall will release HP-UX 11i v3, which is their first major Unix upgrade in three years. (Unix, analysts note, is doing just fine despite the popularity of Linux.) Scalable processor support and more integration with rival IBM’s middleware are planned as new features. HP also plans more automation and virtualization support in version 4, which is still a couple of years away.

For more on HP’s Unix agenda:
- read this eWeek article

ALSO: Acquisitions on HP itinerary. Article

Studies show that physicians generally start out in their career ordering too many tests. Then, as they get more experienced, they order fewer than average. Their gut instincts have developed, and they get pretty good at diagnosing patients without a bunch of unnecessary tests.

read more

RightNow Technologies, known for its hosted CRM software, said it acquired Salesnet, known for its sales-force automation software, for $9 million. That’s a small deal in computer industry terms, but it’s huge in terms of credibility for the hosted business software model. RightNow hopes to re-launch the products in summer 2007, and Salesnet’s top employees will stay aboard, officials said.

For more on the deal:
- read this CRM Buyer article

ALSO: SAP outlines plans at user conference. Article