There are several factors which will contribute to MW's success or failure - the economy, luck, and avoiding stupidity. HP's board does not have a very good track record; perhaps it's a case of too many chiefs without the requisite indians. So the only aspect MW has any control over is not making bad business decisions. The press and public have a belief that chief executives are totally responsible a company's (or country's) performance, when it really is about its people, products, and corporate culture.