99% of what I do would be just fine on a netbook... and I'm pretty sure that the same would hold for many other positions in corporate America.  Decent RAM and a solid browser is all that most web applications require - no need for the fastest processor or the most hard disc space.

With the low cost and the portability, there's a good chance that netbooks might find their way into the business world - but that's more likely to come as a laptop replacement, not a desktop replacement.  Desktop's are still more bang for your buck, and a more reliable machine is a better financial investment. (You might only NEED 1GB RAM today, but what's coming down the line next year?)

I think Netbooks have a good shot at gaining ground for heavy travelers - and for marketers and creative types that don't need too much power, and like to pop open the computer and work when the inspiration strikes them...

I just bought a netbook and I couldn't be happier. The big - make that huge - advantages are 1) small size/light weight, 2) Windows xp instead of Vista and 3) cost. I downloaded the open office suite (Writer, Calc, etc.) so my total investment was around $350. I spent another $100 with a consultant on a couple of adjustments and now I have everything I need. Although I'm a freelance writer now, I worked in the corporate environment for quite a few years and I'm certain that netbooks will give people the horsepower they need for the tasks they do.

   My guess: High-end laptops will take a big hit. Netbooks are convenient for the user and attractive to the CFO, so why not trade down?

As a business traveler, I totally agree with Tim.

I love taking my netbook on trips instead of my big, heavy, and old laptop from corporate (three years old already). I access MS Project, Excel files, and web apps with ease all day long with very little delay. In fact, I think my netbook is faster than my laptop!

Now if I could just get stronger bifocals I'd be set!

Jane