The Hewlett-Packard and Compaq Merger:

A Case Study in Business Communication

Walter Hewlett v. Carly Fiorina:

A Focal Point for Classroom Discussion

The HP Way
Recognize that profit is the best measure of a companys contribution to society and the ultimate source of corporate strength; Continually improve the value of the products and services offered to customers; Seek new opportunities for growth but focus efforts on fields in which the company can make a contribution; Provide employment opportunities that include the chance to share in the companys success; Maintain an organizational environment that fosters individual motivation, initiative and creativity; Demonstrate good citizenship by making contributions to the community; Emphasize growth as a requirement for survival.

Based on these objectives, who is right?

or

Walter?

Carly?

Walter Hewletts Position

Carly Fiorinas Position

Discussion
Evaluate the merits and weaknesses of each argument. Who has the better argument, Hewlett or Fiorina?

Activity
Group 1: Create a print ad from Walter Hewletts position on the merger. Group 2: Create a print ad from Carly Fiorinas position on the merger.

Actual ads from the two sides:

W A L T E R A N D F A M I L Y

C A R L Y A N D

H P