Dell's DirectConnect Trade Show: A Glimpse into the Future of Computing

Strategic Insights -

Top executives from major corporations, including Microsoft's Bill Gates and Intel's Craig Barrett, gathered at Dell's invitation-only DirectConnect trade show in Austin, Texas, to discuss the future of personal computing and e-commerce. The event, which ran from Tuesday to Thursday, drew around 1,400 customers from around the world, including computer technicians and executives from various industries. The show was a testament to Dell's efforts to collaborate with industry giants and prepare customers for the expected $1 trillion e-commerce market.

Key Takeaways:

  • Dell's DirectConnect trade show featured top executives from Microsoft, Intel, and Cisco Systems, discussing the future of personal computing and e-commerce.
  • The event drew around 1,400 customers from around the world, including computer technicians and executives from various industries.
  • Dell is working with Microsoft to help customers upgrade from Windows NT to Windows 2000 when the operating system is released next year.
  • Dell is expected to announce a new initiative in Internet services, a key area of expansion for the company.
  • Compaq Computer Corp. is still a dominant player in the NT space, despite concerns about its recent executive turnover and market share loss.
  • Dart-smattering other computer companies, including Dell and IBM, are gaining market share at the expense of Compaq.
  • Rob Edinger, a 28-year-old computer technician from Warner-Lambert Co., was one of the first attendees to arrive at the event, and he expressed excitement about hearing from Gates and Barrett.
  • LaMarre, a network manager from Applied Materials Inc., was also in attendance, representing a company that has recently decided to use IBM desktop computers.
  • Dell is showcasing its latest products in the exhibit hall, including its partnership with IBM Corp., Novel Corp., Sony Corp., and Tivoli Systems Inc.

Statistics:

  • Around 1,400 customers attended the two-day DirectConnect event.
  • The expected e-commerce market is projected to reach $1 trillion.
  • Dell is planning to help customers upgrade from Windows NT to Windows 2000 when the operating system is released next year.
  • Compaq Computer Corp. has around 50 servers made by Compaq at its manufacturing plant in Austin.
  • Applied Materials Inc. spends around $1 million annually on servers.

Sources:

  • The Austin American-Statesman
  • Jerry Mahoney at jmahoney@statesman.com or 445-3642