[azulum]

hp used be renowned for management empowering employees. of course they also used to be renowned for only entering fields in which they could contribute real innovation (and making stuff just to make stuff, but making something new and better than anything else). i'm still in disbelief about this company. they have abandoned nearly every damned thing that made this company great. from jim collins' foreward to the hp way (linked in my last comment)

The core essence of the HP Way consists of five fundamental precepts.

1) The Hewlett-Packard company exists to make a technical contribution, and should only pursue opportunities consistent with this purpose;

2) The Hewlett-Packard company demands of itself and its people superior performance—profitable growth is both a means and a measure of enduring success;

3) The Hewlett-Packard company believes the best results come when you get the right people, trust them, give them freedom to find the best path to achieve objectives, and let them share in the rewards their work makes possible;

4) The Hewlett-Packard company has a responsibility to contribute directly to the well-being of the communities in which its operates;

5) Integrity, period.