Gavin make a good point about storms.  Now, please, all those writing
about Carly, etc., etc., etc., let's all get back to hanging on against
the storm by getting down to writing great HP e3000 applications that
take care of business!

There is at least one major opportunity just waiting for a great
package: Higher Education.

The major vendor of what is traditionally called "administrative"
software for Higher Education is about to force their twin customer
bases (they have their "own" product and one they bought their way
into) through a migration over the next several years.  Many recent
customers are only just beginning to get used to the software they
have and are not ready for another migration.  There are also many
customers on VMS, which won't be supported in the new system.  Many,
many customers are dissatisfied by the quality and complexity of the
current software.  They also have a reputation for making money off
professional services, customization, and support, not so much on
the software's initial purchase price.

Vendors of HP e3000 Higher Ed packages and CSY take heed: you will
have to improve your marketing to be able to get the attention of
Higher Education executives.  Take your products to professional
conferences and advertise in the Chron. of Higher Ed.

I also believe the Higher Education market is ripe for an ASP approach.
The current most popular software requires a full IT support staff to
keep it up and running.  Put together an offering and have it as an
alternative.

One final thought.  The latest buzz in information systems is
Customer Relationship Management (CRM), which is actually one of
the traditional strengths of the HP e3000 community.  We understand
customer satisfaction and quality.  This buzz is a gift. Take it and
run with it.

Best to all,
Richard
--
Richard L Gambrell
Senior Information Technology Consultant
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
103 Hunter Hall, Dept. 4454
615 McCallie Ave., Chattanooga, TN 37403-2598
voice mail/cell phone: 423-432-5122
private e-mail: [log in to unmask]
UTC fax: 423-755-4150
UTC phone: 423-755-4551
UTC email: [log in to unmask]