H-P's PC & Printer Under One Roof

In an attempt to restructure its business model, reduce cost and improve efficiency; Hewlett-Packard Company has decided to merge its Personal Computer and Printing divisions into one business unit.

Personal computers and printing business are complementary in nature. They have similar set of clients and are challenged by the popularity of cloud computing and tablets just as Apple's iPad. 

The new unit will be headed

The new unit will be headed by PC division chief Todd Bradley. Nevertheless, Vyomesh I. Joshi, who had been the head of printing division for past 31 years, is retiring. Mr. Joshi had played a pivotal role in the development of HP and expanded the company's business in areas like industrial printing.

Moreover, HP is planning to launch new tablet featuring Microsoft Corp. 's Windows 8 operating system. The company is hoping high to capture a significant share in the tablet market.

Apart from implementing internal restructuring process, HP is as well keen on making its cloud computing services public within two months. HP's cloud services will be somewhat similar to the cloud platform offered by renowned online retailer Amazon.com Inc. 's Web Services.

The announcement to merge the two businesses into one is encouraging. But, it will take some time to implement the decision. This apart, a lackluster PC demand and a dull business prospect in Europe may pose some short-term challenges.