I'm writing a TL with a PoD at the very beginning of the 11th century. I was wondering if there is any way to prevent the massive decentralization in the HRE, preserve more of the stem duchies and prevent their fracturing? By extension then, is it remotely possible a sort of royal federation could arise among these states so we'd see a "Kingdom of Germany" in the Middle Ages?
My PoD is in the early 11th century so anything around then is fair game. I figured perhaps a good PoD for this might be Otto III surviving and being able to centralize the empire in Rome. With more of the HRE's focus on Italy, Germany might end up neglected and rebel more. But I don't know if that's any good for preserving the duchies or for helping found a German Kingdom.
Anyway, any input is appreciated.