Dell Announces Global Partnership with Ford Motor Company

Dell Computer Corporation has announced a significant partnership with Ford Motor Company, the second-largest car and truck manufacturer in the world, to standardize its computer systems worldwide on Dell brand. This partnership aims to reduce Ford's information technology costs significantly while improving product quality and reducing costs. Dell's direct business model and ability to execute global in-factory hardware customization were key factors in Ford's decision to standardize on Dell.

Key Takeaways:

Ford Motor Company has chosen to standardize its Intel processor-based desktop, notebook, and server computer systems worldwide on the Dell brand.
The partnership will deploy Dell OptiPlex desktop PCs, Latitude notebook PCs, and PowerEdge servers throughout Ford operations internationally.
Dell's direct business model will help Ford decrease costs through lower prices, direct shipping from the factory, on-time delivery, and reduced cost of installation.
Ford will configure all computer systems with the same custom set of software, including Ford proprietary applications, through DellPlus.
Dell has assigned on-site sales and engineering teams to work with Ford's IT organization to manage product transitions and design and implement technology roadmaps.
Dell has signed multi-year, multi-million-dollar agreements with large enterprises, including Mobil Corporation, Sara Lee Corporation, FTD, and H-E-B.

Statistics:

Revenues of $18.2 billion for the past four quarters make Dell the world's leading direct computer systems company.
Ford is ranked No. 125 among the Fortune 500 companies and No. 363 in the Fortune Global 500.
Dell's global in-factory hardware customization capabilities enable high-volume production of customized computer systems while maintaining high quality standards.

Sources:

"Dell Announces Global Partnership with Ford Motor Company" (Dell Computer Corporation)
Fortune 500 (Fortune magazine)
Fortune Global 500 (Fortune magazine)
Degnan, Mary. "Dell Computer Corporation completes merger." Business week (1999)