zatoicchi
08.09.08, 04:30
It would appear Dell Inc. is looking to sell its computer factories in preference of outsourcing in an attempt to cut expenses. With many of Dell’s competitors, such as HP and Apple, already outsourcing production of many of their own computers, Dell seems to be simply following in suit. According to sources, Dell could be selling most or all of their computer factories within the next 18 months.
Dell currently does outsource part of its manufacturing process for many of its laptops, with just the final assembly taking place at their own factories, such as those in the United States. Although current means of production for Dell’s desktop PCs is considered efficient, falling yearly profits for Dell has forced it to reevaluate its business model to further cut costs. With manufacturing contractors being able to have greater focus on the production process, having greater specialization, and possibly having the use of an offshore labor force, the use of contractors could result in a cost savings. With rising oil prices, transportation costs are increasing as well, making manufacturing a product at fewer locations potentially cheaper. Some believe though that Dell may sell its factories to the same contractors who will continue to produce PCs for Dell.
Dell to Rid Itself of Factories by 2010 (http://www.tomshardware.co.uk/Dell-Offshoring-Factories,news-29111.html)
Dell currently does outsource part of its manufacturing process for many of its laptops, with just the final assembly taking place at their own factories, such as those in the United States. Although current means of production for Dell’s desktop PCs is considered efficient, falling yearly profits for Dell has forced it to reevaluate its business model to further cut costs. With manufacturing contractors being able to have greater focus on the production process, having greater specialization, and possibly having the use of an offshore labor force, the use of contractors could result in a cost savings. With rising oil prices, transportation costs are increasing as well, making manufacturing a product at fewer locations potentially cheaper. Some believe though that Dell may sell its factories to the same contractors who will continue to produce PCs for Dell.
Dell to Rid Itself of Factories by 2010 (http://www.tomshardware.co.uk/Dell-Offshoring-Factories,news-29111.html)