A question was asked: Can you configure Outlook to open to the Unread search folder?

Sure. You can make Outlook open to any folder, even ones not on the list at Tools, Options, Other, Advanced, Start in... by adding the /select switch to the command line of an Outlook shortcut and following with the folder path.

Outlook 2003 and Outlook 2007 include all local folders in the profile, including search folders. Outlook 2002 and earlier include only the default folders in the Start in list. You'll need to use the /select switch to open Outlook to folders not listed in the dialog.

Right click on an Outlook shortcut and choose Properties. To the Outlook path in the shortcut, add the switch and path:
/select "outlook:search folders\Unread Mail"

The complete path will resemble this:

"C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\OFFICE12\OUTLOOK.EXE" /select "outlook:search folders\Unread Mail"

To use other folders, show the Web toolbar and select the folder. Copy the path (including outlook:) from the address field in the Web toolbar and paste after the select switch. You'll need to use quotes around the path if it contains spaces.

For more help with command lines and switches, see Using Command lines