This leads to a small selection of preconfigured systems, which will probably serve the needs of most users. People who have a more definite idea about the configuration they want can build their own computers. The shopper starts by choosing a base system. Dropdown lists allow the shopper to change the selections for some of the components, such as a bigger hard drive or more memory. After making adjustments, the shopper submits the new configuration, and the updated page will show the new price.
Customers can order online or by phone, using any of a variety of payment methods.
The Web site also allows buyers to check their orders' status at any time, whether they made the purchase over the Web. Of course, Dell is aware that the Web is good for more than just making sales. Support is also an important part of the mix, and customers can find plenty of it at the Dell Web site. They can read various FAQ files, request faxes, and participate in public discussion forums. Dell's file library offers a large number of drivers, patches, utilities, and text files.