SUSE Linux Optimization for SAP Apps... Now?

There was a little blurb on internet.com a couple of days ago mentioning that Novell would be optimizing the SUSE Linux OS for SAP applications.

Linux vendor Novell is releasing an optimized version of its SUSE Linux Enterprise Server tailored for applications from software vendor SAP.

Now I don't expect Novell's business to stand still right now, but this is interesting given that there were reports a couple of weeks back that that Novell was about to break itself into 2 parts and sell itself off. From the NY Post believe it or not:

Novell Inc. has reached a deal in principle to sell itself in two parts, and is three to four weeks away from signing a deal, according to people close to the process.

A strategic buyer will buy the piece of the software provider that develops and delivers Linux SUSE systems, with a private-equity firm picking up much of the rest. Both deals are expected to close simultaneously and the company will be de-listed, according to one source, who noted that the talks are in a sensitive stage and could fall apart.

This feels right considering that Elliott Associates, a Waltham, Mass-based Hedge Fund, made an offer to buy Novell back in March.  The offer was rejected. An optimized Linux enterprise server for SAP applications will benefit the new SUSE Linux owner, whoever that may be.  I will be sad to see an independent Novell go the way of so many other enterprise software vendors... how Darwinian eh?