To Vista or Not to Vista?

In the very near future Microsoft will be rolling out an auto-update of Service Pack 1 (SP1) for Windows Vista users which typically the sign to jump on board when it comes to Microsoft products (typically 1 year, or the first service pack, which ever comes first). So the question is whether or not the typical Microsoft cycle holds true for their latest offering, and with the announcement straight from the mouth of Bill Gates saying that Windows 7 is coming sooner rather than later, some argue that Vista is just another ME (see: Mistake Edition), however the real big thing here is: "Are businesses going to use Vista or not?". This is fundamental because if Businesses end up using Vista we will see it in use for a much longer time than that of Vista. While most IT departments are trying to steer clear of this "pretty OS" and stick with Windows XP (Microsoft even offers a downgrade License to XP from Business/Ultimate Editions) but there is a kicker that will probably force more business operations onto Vista than are currently willing to do so. Windows XP's support if officially dead in 2010 which leaves just under a year (if there are not delays) for Windows 7 which is not enough time for most IT departments to jump onto a fresh version of Windows.
What scares and IT department more than a hog operating system that isn't really "needed" except for the fact that the previous OS isn't supported anymore is an Operating that has not been proven in the field.
If you want the best advice about what to do with Windows Vista, the safest bet is (if you have the know how) dual boot XP and Vista to make sure you can run any current Windows Application. Or if you are not necessarily tech savvy shoot for getting Vista onto your machine (or a new machine) by Christmas time this year, and hang onto it until 2011. Besides by then the baseline performance of even modestly priced PC's should be able to handle all that is Vista and provide a smooth experience. Try to steer clear of Vista Home Basic though as it is too chopped down to justify it as an "upgrade". At least jump for Windows Vista Home Premium or above.