Dell was founded in 1984 on a direct business model that sells computer systems directly to customers. This eliminates retailers and allows Dell to build each system to order based on customer specifications. Dell also introduces new technology faster than competitors. Dell grew rapidly in the 1980s-1990s and became the largest PC seller. It introduced online sales in 1996. Dell's configure-to-order and just-in-time manufacturing approaches minimize inventory costs. Dell gains benefits like cash flow, reduced costs, strong customer relationships, and demand forecasting from its direct model. It drives innovation through customer feedback.