Although Apple promised a "no new features" upgrade, the fact is that Snow Leopard introduces a number of significant under the hood updates that requiring extensive testing before we release the latest big cat to our clients. Improved networking means smoother interaction with Davidson's servers. A refined code foundation means a smaller install, saving disc space and speeding installation times. QuickTime X brings a raft of free video manipulation tools that previously required a Pro upgrade. Updated Mail, iCal and Address Book apps allow us to look into offering alternatives to Microsoft's Entourage.

Speaking of Entourage -- which we're aware enjoys a less-than-stellar reputation with some folks -- we're simultaneously testing a new version of Entourage: MS Entourage EWS. This version using our existing Exchange server's Web services to provide a significant increase in speed and flexibility for the aging warhorse app. Operations that used to require six separate server connections now require a single connection, which makes EWS considerably faster than previous versions. EWS also allows syncing of tasks, notes and categories to the server, so you can now keep all of your Entourage data online, rather than on your machine. This brings Entourage much closer to being a true feature-equivalent Mac version of Outlook.

Of course, all this cool stuff requires testing, both to make sure it works, and to make sure we know how to support it. We already have a working deployment image of Snow Leopard that's in use by ITS staff, and our tentative plan is to start wider testing next month. Our ultimate goal is to put the newest OS in your hands by Christmas, if not sooner.