The deal combines Opsware’s industry-leading IT automation offerings with HP Software’s business and IT service management capabilities to boost HP’s Business Technology Optimization portfolio of enterprise IT management software.

BTO is a category of software and services that enable chief information officers to enhance the value and optimize business outcomes from their IT investments.

“With Opsware, we have elevated HP’s relevance to CIOs with products and solutions to help them transform and drive the next generation of data centers,” said Thomas E. Hogan, senior vice president, Software, HP. “By reducing operational costs and improving efficiencies through IT automation, CIOs can invest in strategic growth initiatives to drive value and competitive advantage for their companies.”

HP also announced that it has appointed Opsware Chief Executive Officer Ben Horowitz to lead the Business Technology Optimization organization reporting to Hogan.

Upon the closing of the acquisition, all remaining outstanding Opsware shares, other than those held by stockholders who properly perfect appraisal rights under Delaware law, were converted into the right to receive $14.25 per share in cash. As a result of the transaction, Opsware has become a subsidiary of HP.-HP