I've progressively convinced myself over the last few days that Bill Gates will return to an operational role at Microsoft. Even if it was not as CEO - maybe some cryptic role like Chief Innovation Officer - the feelgood factor among the troops and extensive PR mileage could be just about enough to ensure Microsoft jumps the tracks to a different future than the one it's heading towards right now.

He comes back, Ballmer leaves to spend more time with his money, the press blows its brains out, Gates then spends 3-5 years leading the big Microsoft regeneration and then re-retires having appointed a new, younger prodigy to take over long term.

Works for me.