I've maintained for a long while that MS is weaker without Gates. From all I've read, it was clear that Bill had a strong leadership role in the technical domain, and his influence was not to be underestimated.

So the announcement that he was leaving left me certain that MS was past its peak, and will decline over the next decade.

That was until reading this article. Ballmer impresses me with the insight in how to replace such an important leader. Reaching into Max Weber for a credible plan, and then ensuring Gates names two incredible minds to carry on after he's gone: Ozzie and Mundie.

The question is can two replace the one? Time will tell, but a certain downfall is now less certain in my mind.

Thanks WSJ for a great article.