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Its positive that the Army is taking this step, but if the change is confined to selecting which O-6’s will make O-7, the change is cosmetic.
A friend of mind who retired as an O-7 told me that a Brigadier was similar to a pledge in fraternity - in but not really a member. And a Major General was similar to a pledge who had just been inducted into the frat: a member now but uncertain and cautious because senior brothers were far more influential.
Anyone who has studied the military (especially the Army) knows the big and most important jump is from two to three stars. The critical decisions are made by Lt Gen’s and above. Also, as I understand it, no formal promotions boards exist for the jump from Major General to Lt General. A small group of senior officers meet informally to decide who will get a third star.
Will the Army (and the other services) change this critical step? Unlikely. Those at the top have too much invested in the system to surrender control.

Interesting that the Navy has no equivalent to brigadier, and that a navy Captain has a much heft as a birgadier. However, I think that the significance is that the choice of those who get that second and that third star will be drawn from a different pool than before. I am sure there will be many O-6s who are disappointed who several years ago thought they were sure to get their stars. AND if Petraeus is successful in Iraq, he could become the next George Marshall and leave his stamp on the army long after his retirement.

A small group of senior officers meet informally to decide who will get a third star.

With a lot of input from the civilian "political leadership."