Dell Computer

By Zach Linhart

Dell is a high quality, user friendly computer company. Dell’s main focus is the consumer. Dell computers are not sold in stores, but only through the Internet or through the telephone. This specialty allows their customers great quality and service. Because Dell does not need to have an inventory list, its product prices can be consistently lower than its competitors. Since the computers are sold directly from Dell, if a breakdown occurs, service and support are top priorities. This is known as Dell's "direct customer contact." Next day, on-site service is one of the great features of Dell systems. If anything breaks, it will be fixed by the next day. Also, if part of your computer is broken, it can be sent back and a new part will arrive within three days. Dell's computers are Y2K compliant, and are designed with top of the line components and technology. Michael Dell, the head of Dell Computer Corp. states "Your privacy is a primary concern to us at Dell Computer Corporation. Our goal in expanding and clarifying our policy on the collection and use of customer data is to ensure the highest level of confidentiality and security. Let me emphasize that this policy is a corporate-wide policy, not limited to our growing online business." This statement shows Dell's commitment to the privacy of its customers. These many features of the Dell Company make it successful and profitable.

Over the last few years, Dell has been extremely successful. For the twenty-six months leading up to July 30th, 1999, Dell's revenues rose 42% to $12 billion, and the company's net income rose 45% to $941 million. This means that Dell sold almost $12 billion worth of merchandise and made a substantial profit. The Dell Company employs approximately 29,300 people in 33 countries around the world. This is known as their "direct world plan," and is a plan to make Dell computers accessible worldwide. Recently, Dell has reached a computer sales record, topping its rival Compaq. Dell stock has recently fluctuated around $40, however, a few months ago it reached almost $55. The stock's 52-week high is $55 and its low is $29.87. Dell hopes that its new line of Inspirons, the 3700 models and the 7500 models, will boost its stock prices.

Dell's high performance laptops, desktops, and servers, plus its great service and support make Dell one of the top companies in the computer business. Another aspect of Dell's success is its feature of complete online services and the option for you to choose your own components. As Michael Dell says, "At Dell, we are helping you maintain control over your personal data while fostering the growth of a more interactive online environment." He supports the idea of Internet services, and Dell has these services. That is what makes Dell one of the best computer companies in their industry.