The problem that HP has now, in the wake of Hurd's abrupt departure, is that some of these pieces--namely Palm--are not yet fully integrated, and the vision for how they fit into HP is not yet fully formed. The management style and corporate philosophy of Hurd's successor could make or break the momentum HP has right now.

HP has been a household name as a technology brand for decades, but that can quickly change. Another five years of aggressive business tactics and innovative leadership and HP could be virtually indestructible, but another five years of frivolous business decisions and untamed spending could put HP back on the verge of collapse.

HP has a lot going for it right now. The future seems bright as long as the HP board manages to attract the right kind of talent to take the reins.