"How did Michael Dell define Community?"

According to Mr. Dell, "The final stage is developing an online community. We are building two-way relationships over the web with both our customers and our suppliers." - Detroit Economic Club. 

He went on to express the goal of "establishing communities of suppliers and end users that share common interests." 

At the later conference in the Southwest he ended by observing, "In summary, the Internet is changing the face of the entire economic and social structure of not only this country but the entire world, and governments have a great opportunity to embrace it. We’re seeing a transition from a brick-and-mortar government to an online government. The advantages will include things like velocity, efficiency, and a better customer experience." 

The internet has matured since Michael Dell first talked about the 3 C's, but as a model they still make sense today. They are not a grocery list to pick and choose. Today community is so important that it has ushered in a rebirth of web marketing, often called Web 2.0. Web 2.0 depends on social marketing strategies such as blogs, Myspace, and  other elements to build that community. Content and commerce both serve the final C of community.

It is in community where loyalties, relationships, and trust are built. Where there is community there are repeat customers. Community-building is a vital skill to have if you want to be an entrepreneur.

Do they resonate with Michael Dell's suggestion? Think about the last quote. "The ultimate goal is to deepen relationships." Commerce aspects may reduce costs and increase efficiency, but with a purpose. The ultimate goal is C # 3 which is community.