Ford Standardizes On Dell Computer Systems

17 February 1999

Ford Standardizes On Dell Computer Systems; Agreement Drives Down Ford's Total Cost of Ownership

    ROUND ROCK, Texas--Feb. 17, 1999--Dell Computer Corporation today announced that Ford Motor Company, the second-largest car and truck manufacturer in the world, has chosen to standardize its Intel(R) processor-based desktop, notebook and server computer systems worldwide on the Dell brand.
    Ford said it would reduce significantly information technology costs under the agreement. Dell(R) OptiPlex(R) desktop PCs, Latitude(R) notebook PCs and PowerEdge(R) servers will be deployed throughout Ford operations internationally, including its Jaguar, Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Mazda brands.
    "Ford, like Dell, is driven by the goal to continuously produce better products at a lower cost," said Joe Marengi, senior vice president and general manager of Dell's Relationship Group. "Our direct business model helps Ford decrease costs through lower prices, direct shipping from the factory, on-time delivery and reduced cost of installation."
    Dell's ability to execute global in-factory hardware customization on all of Ford's computer systems also contributed to Ford's decision to standardize on Dell, Marengi said. Through DellPlus, all computer systems will be configured with the same custom set of software, including Ford proprietary applications. Dell's ability to produce both types of customization in high-volume, quickly and efficiently, while maintaining a high quality standard, results in a reliable, cost-effective solution for Ford.
    Dell , the world's leading direct computer systems company, provides Ford with on-site sales and engineering teams, which also work with Ford's IT organization to manage product transitions and to design and implement technology roadmaps.
    Dell has recently signed a series of multi-year, multi-million-dollar agreements with large enterprises, including Mobil Corporation, Sara Lee Corporation, FTD and H-E-B.
    Ranked No. 125 among the Fortune 500 companies and No. 363 in the Fortune Global 500, Dell Computer Corporation is the world's leading direct computer systems company, based on revenues of $18.2 billion for the past four quarters. Dell designs, manufactures and customizes products and services to customer requirements and offers an extensive selection of software and peripherals. Information on Dell and its products can be obtained through its toll-free number 800/388-8542 or by accessing the Dell World Wide Web site at www.dell.com.

Dell, OptiPlex, Latitude and PowerEdge are registered trademarks of Dell Computer Corporation. Fortune 500 is a registered trademark of Time Inc. Dell disclaims any proprietary interest in the marks and names of others.