Dell was founded in 1984 by Michael Dell with a vision of building personal computers to order and selling them directly to customers, bypassing retailers. Dell's principal products included desktop and laptop PCs, workstations, and servers. Dell utilized a build-to-order manufacturing strategy with just-in-time inventory, mass customization, partnerships with suppliers, and direct sales. The company provided extensive customer service and partnered with technology providers to help customers use the latest computing technologies.