Module 9: The End

Computers are so integrated into our society, that owning one and knowing how to use it proficiently, is the key to academic success. Computers give simple access to being successful at the skills you wish to obtain. In my last post, I described how relevant computers have been in my education. For today, I will go back to Friedman's topic of collaboration, particularly to the Dell notebook.

With the book coming closer to the end, Friedman mentioned how most of the book was written on his Dell Inspiration 600m notebook. He personally inquired with the company on exactly who was involved and all the steps that went with creating his computer. His personalized laptop building process began with an order at an 800 number, processing his order through a sales representative, and then and order management system. His Visa was authorized and from then his computer was in the running to be made. His order was to be completed at one of 6 factories, Malaysia. On the other hand, part had to be ordered and delivered through different SLC's (supplier logistics center). Dell runs through 30 total suppliers...with a grand total of 400 companies involved in making, designing, delivering and manufacturing any of Dell's products. After parts are collected at the different SLC's, they are delivered to the factory for assembly. Within 30 minutes, the trucks are unloaded, items registered, and parts sorted. Finally, a team member manually assembles the computer by hand (as all the designing was by ODM in Taiwan.) Once finished, it is sent for burning of the specified software download, then sent to the boxing line. From there, is takes the China Airline 747 and lands in the Nashville Airport. The big take-home message from this involved process, is the efficiency in a huge collaboration effort to create balance with demand and supply.

 We can step it up with the same persistent attitude toward education, and even have a preventative and futuristic approach of picking the right job field. With such open doors , increasing improvements will escalate the rate of advancement in technology. With the open door in communication, a new phase on with the Internet had substantial benefits. Uploading. Another revolutionary step. Base codes for programs and new software are generated and made public by a motivated collaborative team purely volunteering for the good of the future. This software can be updated and reviewed, with many patches or in other words, contributions. These then can be the base, or as in Friedman’s analogy, vanilla in an ice-cream sundae, which then can be improved, personalized and patented as the toppings. This free-for-all seeming project, is a place where individuals can shine and bring forth potential. This event proves that we have a place to be empowered, to create, upload and enlighten on complex things. In an economical prospective though, I have to agree with Microsoft’s insight that free can’t be forever, for lack of incentive without the reimbursement to innovate. But I believe the roots of this open community phase is empowering and collective in gaining differing viewpoints and insight; also bringing together self-inspired and determined individuals to get a job done how they foresee, creating a sturdy foundation for all.