This just in:

Vermont, HP Reach DMV Settlement-

Gov. Peter Shumlin and Hewlett-Packard today announced an agreement to terminate for mutual convenience the contract to modernize the computer system of the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles.

The settlement calls for HP to refund the state $8.37 million and the state to return to HP physical and virtual rights to all software and documents created by HP.  The state will retain certain components of the solution developed by HP, such as the point-of-sale system now in use, various equipment purchases and upgrades to DMV’s printing capabilities.  The refund reflects nearly the entire amount paid to the vendor.

The state and HP entered into the settlement agreement because they recognize that the DMV contract was flawed and that a mutual termination is the best path to resolve outstanding issues.  The legacy DMV computer system that has served the state for over 35 years remains functional and will continue to support the Department as the agency evaluates its options.

What was there for 35 years (1977: it’s as old as Star Wars!) ain’t broke, was designed well enough and made simply enough that it still works. I wonder what HP’s problem is?