When in airports, I am curious how often frequent travelers run out of power or juice on their cell phones, making it difficult to make phone calls. And then have difficulties finding a way to quickly charge their phone back up.

I work for a company that picks clients up at various airports. We’re looking for either tracking software or a free online service that will help us keep track of flight arrivals – up to 60 per day. The various airport sites are not at all reliable. Thanks for your help.

Dell Computer is a company that has traditionally used one fairly simple supply chain system–direct sales over the internet or by phone to both business and consumer users. In planning for the future, Dell has begun experimenting with making use of other distribution channels and outlets. They are already using diosks at major airports to demonstrate and sell products. Yet, in considering expanding their channels they certainly don’t want to negatively impact the backbone of their supply chain process–the direct channel.

Can Dell successfully coexist in retail store distribution and in distribution through their traditional direct means?