Dell Computer Has Excelled with a Fast-Paced Build-To-Order Approach That

question 70

Essay

Dell Computer has excelled with a fast-paced build-to-order approach that involves taking customer orders online, orchestrating production tailored to each customer, and forging a one-to-one relationship with the customer after the sale. Some auto industry executives have turned to Michael Dell, the company founder, for advice concerning how to make their businesses look like his. Senior executives at Ford, for example, envision a future where customers will order online and factories will build to order, eliminating billions of dollars of inventory costs (for example, large stocks of vehicles on hand). All of those mass produced cars sitting for weeks on dealer lots represent a massive investment that yields no return until a buyer comes along.
a.Evaluate the feasibility of a build-to-order system for an automaker like Ford and outline the key requirements that Ford must meet to make the strategy work for a potential customer like you.
b.How would a build-to-order system alter the way in which suppliers (business marketers) would serve Ford as a customer?

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Definitions:

Fixed Assets

Long-term tangible assets that are used in the operations of a business and are not expected to be converted to cash in the short term.

Operational Assets

Operational assets are the long-term assets that a company uses in the production of its goods and services, crucial for its core operations.

Plant Assets

These are long-term tangible assets used in the operations of a business that are not intended for resale, such as machinery, buildings, and land.

Fair Market Value

The price that a willing buyer and a willing seller would agree on for an asset in an open and competitive market.