New, now, next!

There's been quite a bit of buzz lately about the next operating system to come out of Microsoft, namely Windows 7. Seems the recent reviews are proclaiming Windows 7 to be Microsoft's best release yet. That's great news. Glad the pundits approve of Microsoft's work. But before we all go running out to purchase the latest and greatest, perhaps we should consider a few things. Care to think this through?

For those of us with a server in our Practice, did you know Microsoft released Windows 2008 Server back in, yes, 2008? Are you also aware that the vast majority of Practice Management software, including the cutting-edge Dentrix G4, is still not certified for Windows 2008 Server? What does "certified" mean, you ask? Well, it means if you call technical support with a problem and tell them you're running their product on Windows 2008 Server, they'll likely end the conversation right there. It means they have no obligation to support you.

But surely workstation operating systems are "certified" much quicker than server's, right? Well... considering the fact that it's fairly easy to run into limitations of digital imaging products when using Windows Vista, I'd give that a lukewarm maybe. Also considering that Windows 7 builds upon Vista, that splash of water I just threw on your parade is getting a little colder. And finally, the chances that technical support will help you install their product on your new Windows 7 system? (That last one was actually a joke.)

So the moral of the story? New technology is great. Advances are made every day that promise to better our lives in and out of the office. But please, please, don't go rushing out to buy the latest gadget, gizmo, or operating system (in this case) without first considering your current environment. And if you're not sure, just ask.