"Acquiring, using and defending software patents has become big business — sometimes playing a vital role in a company’s success — but that could all change if the Supreme Court decides software can no longer be patented. If the justices make that decision, following oral arguments that begin Nov. 9, the ruling could drastically alter the competitive landscape of the Washington area’s software industry and other sectors of the local economy as well. The case, Bilski v. Kappos, marks the first time in more than 25 years that the Supreme Court will look at the criteria used to determine whether a business method or process — such as the series of actions that software performs — can be patented. Lawyers say the court case means change is inevitable and probably won’t favor software developers seeking the security of patents." - ovigia from Bookmarklet